Manchester City manager Josep Guardiola has expressed his condolences to Stuart Pearce and his family following the tragic death of the England legend’s son.
Harley Pearce, 21, tragically lost her life in a tractor accident on the A417 Old Birdlip Hill in Whitcombe, Gloucestershire on Thursday, October 16th. His devastated father Stuart and his family described the tractor operator as a “loved son and devoted brother”.
“We know there are no words for this great tragedy, but our deep love for him and his family is great,” Guardiola said at a press conference in Spain.
Stuart appeared in 38 games for Manchester City in 2001-2002 and took charge as manager after making a name for himself at Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest told X: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Harley Pearce. The thoughts of everyone at Nottingham Forest are with Stuart and his family at this really difficult time.”
Mr Hurley, from Marlborough, Wiltshire, was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision, which was reportedly caused by a tractor tire failure, causing the Hurley to lose control and leave the roadway. Gloucestershire Police said emergency response units arrived at around 2.30pm on Thursday.
“Our family is truly shocked and completely heartbroken by the loss of Harley, our beloved son and devoted brother,” the Pierce family said in a statement released through police.
“He was a soul who left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was a golden boy with a contagious smile, and this shocking tragedy will leave a huge hole in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him,” his family said in a statement.
“We are so proud of the man he has grown into as a man of quiet, unassuming strength and deep kindness, who has shown great work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit in the agricultural industry.
“He will always be our shining star. Rest in peace our beautiful son and brother. You will never be forgotten.”
Stuart also made 42 appearances for West Ham United between 1999 and 2001.
The Hammers told X: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Harley Pearce. The entire club sends our deepest condolences to Stuart and his family at this tragic time.”
Guardiola’s Manchester City will face Spain’s Villarreal in the UEFA Champions League tonight.
The club tweeted yesterday: “Everyone at Manchester City sends their love and thoughts to Stuart and his family at this extremely difficult time.”
Officers from Gloucestershire Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage of the incident to come forward. Details can be shared with police online, citing incident 284 of October 16.
