Two men have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the death of Hendon FC midfielder Ezekiel Williams, and a third man has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Williams, 26, died on Monday after being assaulted in Milton Keynes in the early hours of Sunday. He played as a midfielder for Hendon FC in north-west London, having joined the side in September.
Officers were called by South Central Ambulance Service shortly after 1.50am on Sunday following reports that a man had been assaulted in Midsummer Boulevard. Williams was taken to hospital with serious injuries but died on Monday. He has been formally identified, and his family is being supported by specially trained officers.
All three arrested men, aged 21, 28 and 30, are from Luton and remain in custody, according to Thames Valley Police. The investigation is being led by the force’s Major Crime Unit.
Detective Inspector Rob Underhill, of the Major Crime Unit, said the force’s thoughts were first and foremost with Ezekiel’s family and loved ones at what he called a devastating time, and that specially trained family liaison officers were supporting them.
Police said they do not believe there is any wider risk to the local community, and that there will continue to be an increased police presence in and around The Hub and Milton Keynes city centre over the coming days.
Following his death, Hendon FC described the 26-year-old as a “hard-working and selfless” player and postponed its London Senior Cup tie as a mark of respect. A fundraiser launched in his memory described him as a humble, family-oriented man who took pride in helping others.
Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Midsummer Boulevard and The Hub between 1am and 2am on Sunday to come forward. They are particularly seeking mobile phone footage, dash-cam footage or CCTV recordings from the area at the time. Information can be provided by calling 101, quoting reference 43260570882, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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