Former Arsenal Striker Billy Vigar Tragically Passes Away Following On-Field Brain Injury
Chichester City has announced that striker Billy Vigar died on Thursday following a "severe brain injury" sustained during a league fixture five days prior.
The 21-year-old former Arsenal academy player was competing against Wingate & Finchley in the Isthmian League Premier Division when the injury occurred, leading to the seventh-tier English match being called off after just 13 minutes.
"Following a severe brain injury suffered last Saturday, Billy Vigar was placed into an induced coma," Chichester City stated. "On Tuesday he underwent surgery to improve his recovery prospects. While this provided some assistance, the injury ultimately proved fatal and he died on Thursday (25th) morning.
"The reaction to our initial announcement demonstrates how highly Billy was regarded and cherished throughout the football community. His family is heartbroken that this tragedy occurred while he was participating in the sport he was passionate about."
Vigar became part of Arsenal at age 14 in December 2017 before securing a scholarship at the club's renowned Hale End academy three years subsequently. Progressing alongside Omari Hutchinson, currently with Nottingham Forest, Vigar secured a professional deal in 2022. The Worthing native was loaned to Derby County and Eastbourne before departing for Hastings United in 2024. Vigar had only recently joined Chichester City on Aug. 9 this year.
Arsenal issued a memorial statement for their former academy graduate that opened: "Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is profoundly saddened to learn of the tragic death of Chichester City striker and former Arsenal academy graduate, Billy Vigar."
"Beyond his considerable ability," the tribute added, "Billy will forever be remembered for his passion for football, his honor in representing our club—he once described being discovered by our scouts as 'the most significant day of his life'—and as someone cherished by both teammates and coaching staff.
"Our heartfelt sympathies extend to the Vigar family and his numerous friends during this incredibly challenging period."