Sons of PC Matthew Blades Serve as Mascots for Manchester United Match Following Father's Death

The two sons of police officer Matthew Blades, who was killed in an A66 crash, led out the Manchester United team as mascots during a Premier League match against Ipswich Town on August 30, 2026. PC Blades, 37, and PC Tom Clough, 38, died in the crash involving a Volkswagen Passat that was traveling the wrong way on a dual carriageway in the early hours of August 22. Manchester United described PC Blades as a 'proud Red' and a devoted family man in a tribute published in their match program. His widow, Sarah, attended the game with their children, who were escorted by United captain Bruno Fernandes and goalkeeper Senne Lammens. A minute's applause was held in memory of the officers before a Championship match between Middlesbrough and West Brom. Mourners also gathered at Seaton Carew FC's game, where PC Blades had previously coached. The crash, which occurred shortly after a police pursuit was called off, also resulted in the deaths of five young occupants of the Passat. The police are investigating potential links between the crash and organized crime, as Middlesbrough has seen a rise in violence since the incident. The police and crime commissioner for Cleveland, Matt Storey, had previously warned the government about underfunding and its impact on public safety. Following the crash, additional officers were deployed to the region to manage the situation.