The recent Penaltycup event at FC Hoogeinde took a shocking turn on Friday, May 9, as News emerged only now on 2025-05-21 08:41:00. What started as a lively football tournament with fourteen teams ended in distress when a player was shot near the Molenstraat entrance after the celebrations.
- Penaltycup event featured fourteen participating teams.
- 19-year-old player injured by gunshot wound.
- Police arrested neighbor with illegal airgun.
- Longstanding conflict escalated into violent attack.
- Mayor condemns behavior, supports football club.
- Victim recovered quickly, remains shaken emotionally.
Chairman Marc Van Duyse recounted the terrifying incident: a 19-year-old player was hit in the back of the head by a pellet from an air rifle, fired by a disgruntled neighbour amid a long-standing dispute. The victim was rushed to hospital but thankfully discharged the next day, shaken but recovering.
How could a community football event devolve into such violence? And what does this mean for local clubs facing neighbour conflicts? The answers shed light on the urgent need for intervention and support.
This incident raises critical questions about community safety and neighbourly relations around local sports clubs. Are clubs adequately protected from such hostility? What measures can prevent future violence?
- Longstanding neighbour disputes escalated into criminal acts, disrupting community harmony.
- Authorities arrested the shooter, who possessed an illegal air rifle and was conditionally released.
- Local officials, including Mayor Koen Daniëls, condemned the act and stressed the importance of good neighbourly relations.
- Club members remain fearful, calling for stronger protection and dialogue to end harassment.
Looking ahead, it is crucial for FC Hoogeinde and similar clubs to work closely with authorities and neighbours to rebuild trust and ensure safety. Can this painful episode become a catalyst for lasting peace and cooperation in the community?
