Police issue appeal after 12-year-old fan hit by flare at Sunderland vs Birmingham match

Police have released an appeal following an assault at a football match.

A 12-year-old fan suffered smoke inhalation when a flare hit his wheelchair and landed at his feet during Sunderland's 2-1 win over Birmingham on Saturday 15 April, leaving him badly shaken. No other injuries were reported.

The flare was reported to be thrown from the away section of the ground into the lower north stand.

Northumbria Police launched an investigation and had released an image of someone they would like to speak to in connection with the incident after reviewing CCTV footage.

They have now identified the man and a photograph of the person has since been removed from this story, as requested by officers.

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