brick was hurled in an attack on the Aston Villa team bus following Sunday’s Premier League match against Burnley.
Lancashire Police are appealing for potential witnesses to come forward after confirming that a brick was thrown from a footbridge by the slip road at junction 10 as Villa’s squad and coaching staff travelled along the M65 back to Birmingham following their 3-1 win at Turf Moor.
No one was hurt in the incident, but damage was inflicted after the brick struck the windscreen of the bus.
Lancashire Police said in a statement: “We would now like to hear from anybody who was travelling along that stretch of motorway and who either saw the incident or saw those responsible. We would especially like to hear from anybody who has dashcam which could help with our enquiries.”
Supt Melita Worswick added: “This incident occurred when a great deal of traffic was leaving the area following the football match between Burnley and Aston Villa. It is nothing but good fortune that the brick didn’t cause more damage, or result in somebody being seriously injured or even killed.
“We cannot say at this point whether this was a targeted attack but enquiries are ongoing and this will form part of our investigation.
“We are now determined to find the person or people responsible and are asking for anyone with information to get in touch. If you have any information or dashcam which can help us, please contact us as soon as possible.”
In their own statement, Burnley said they were “saddened and dismayed” as they condemned the attack and pledged to help police find the perpetrator.
“Burnley Football Club is saddened and dismayed to learn about an attack on the Aston Villa team bus at junction 10 of the M65 after today’s match,” the Clarets tweeted on Sunday evening.
“Having spoken with Villa we are relieved to hear nobody was hurt in the incident.
“We strongly condemn this behaviour and will support Lancashire Police in their efforts to find whoever was responsible.”
