Former Sunderland Academy Player Charged with Murder Following Death of Non-League Footballer

James Hitchcock, a non-league footballer and goalkeeper for Barton Town FC, has tragically died after an alleged assault during a night out in York last weekend. A man from the North East has been charged with his murder.

Hitchcock, a married father of one, sustained serious injuries during an incident at York railway station on Sunday night. Despite receiving medical care, he passed away in hospital on Wednesday.

British Transport Police have confirmed the arrest and charging of 22-year-old Mckenzie Dicicco from Stockton-on-Tees with murder and affray. Dicicco, a former Sunderland under-18s academy player and non-league footballer, is set to appear at York Magistrates’ Court.

Authorities reported that officers were called to York railway station around 8:45 PM GMT on Sunday after Hitchcock, in his 30s, suffered severe head injuries.

Barton Town FC released an official statement mourning the loss of their goalkeeper:

“Barton Town FC are devastated to announce that following a serious head injury, our First Team goalkeeper James Hitchcock has passed away peacefully in hospital.”

The club expressed their condolences, saying:
“Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, April, their young son, Freddie, his parents, family, and friends.