The Football Association has lost a standout member.
English soccer star George Baldock was tragically found dead at his home in the Glyfada area of Athens, Greece on Wednesday. According to the BBC, authorities discovered him unresponsive in his swimming pool at around 10:30 p.m. local time and administered CPR, but sadly to no avail. He was just 31 years old.
The Ministry of Citizen Protection in Greece came forward with a statement denying foul play, noting police searched the area for any signs of “criminal activity.” They wrote:
“A preliminary investigation has been carried out by the Attica Security Directorate. A forensic pathologist was called to the scene and examined the body with no evidence of criminal activity. In addition, the police searched the house to determine if there are any traces of a burglary, with a negative result … Also, a specialized team of the Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Police carried out a check at the house in order to exclude the possibility of criminal activity.”
The local coroner’s office has since ruled the late athlete’s death a drowning. We’re glad to hear there is no reason to suspect foul play, but it makes George’s untimely death no less tragic.
Related: American Pickers Star Frank Fritz ‘Lost The Will To Live’ After Suffering Stroke
George’s family has since spoken out, saying in a statement:
“We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss.”
So heartbreaking.
The Football Association later confirmed that ahead of Thursday night’s Nation’s League match between England and Greece, a moment of silence will be held at London’s Wembley Stadium. The late soccer player used to play for that country’s Sheffield United, but changed over to Greek soccer club Panathinaikos earlier this year. In a statement, the club wrote:
“We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George. Panathinaikos’ family mourns his unexpected loss. We stand with the family and relatives of George Baldock.”
Sheffield United also shared a touching tribute to George on their YouTube page:
Gone far too early. Rest in peace, George.
[Images via Sheffield United FC/YouTube]