CHICHSTER CITY: Former Arsenal striker Billy Vigar has died at the age of 21 after sustaining a severe brain injury during a league game for Chichester City.
Vigar collapsed during an Isthmian League Premier Division clash against Wingate & Finchley last Saturday, forcing the match to be abandoned after just 13 minutes. He was placed in an induced coma and later underwent surgery on Tuesday in a bid to aid his recovery.
However, his family confirmed in a statement that he passed away on Thursday morning, September 25.
After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy was put in an induced coma. On Tuesday, he needed an operation to aid any chances of recovery.
Although this helped, the injury proved too much for him and he passed away on Thursday morning, the family said.
They described him as a much-loved figure whose death was devastating, especially as it occurred while playing the sport he loved.
Chichester City also expressed deep sorrow, urging the public to respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time.
Vigar began his football journey at Hove Rivervale FC before joining Arsenal’s academy in 2017 at the age of 14.
He signed his first professional contract in 2022 and had loan spells with Derby County and Eastbourne Borough before moving to Hastings United in 2024. He joined Chichester City at the start of the current season.
Arsenal, in a tribute, described him as “a striker of immense talent and a beloved character.
Billy joined our academy on schoolboy terms at 14 after being scouted from Hove Rivervale FC and excelled immediately, scoring 17 goals in his debut season at Hale End.
He will be remembered not only for his talent but for his love of the game, his pride in representing Arsenal, and his warmth as a teammate and friend. Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this extremely difficult time,” the club said.
