Jury unable to reach verdict in trial of man accused of killing Blackpool FC supporter Tony Johnson

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


A jury has been unable to reach a verdict in the trial of a man accused of killing Blackpool FC supporter Tony Johnson during a post-match brawl.

Mr Johnson, 55, died after suffering a serious head injury outside a pub in Blackpool following a match between Blackpool and Burnley on March 4, 2023.

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Jake Balmforth, 34, of Tarvin Close, Burnley, was accused of manslaughter but denied the allegation. Following a five day trial at Preston Crown Court the jury was unable to reach a verdict.

The Honorary Recorder of Preston, Judge Robert Altham, set a date for a retrial to take place, on April 28, 2025.

Mr Johnson's family described him as "a very much loved dad, son, brother, uncle and Gramps and obviously a beloved friend to many".

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