Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a British soccer player who suffered serious injuries in Milton Keynes.
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Ezekiel Williams, 26, who played for Hendon FC, sustained "serious injuries" during an incident on Midsummer Boulevard in the early hours of Sunday.
Emergency services rushed the midfielder to a hospital, but he died from his injuries on Monday.
Three Men Arrested Following Soccer Player Murder Investigation
Officers from Thames Valley Police responded to the incident at approximately 1:50 a.m. local time on Sunday after receiving a call from the South Central Ambulance Service.
According to the BBC, police have arrested two men, aged 21 and 28, from Luton on suspicion of murder.
Authorities also arrested a third man, aged 30, from Luton on suspicion of assisting an offender.
All three suspects remain in police custody as detectives continue their investigation.
Detective Inspector Rob Underhill, of Thames Valley Police's major crime unit, acknowledged the concerns surrounding the incident.
"We recognise this incident will cause concern within the local community," Underhill said.
"There will continue to be an increased police presence in and around The Hub and Milton Keynes city centre over the coming days, and I would encourage anybody with concerns to speak with our officers."
Hendon FC Pays Emotional Tribute to Ezekiel Williams
Williams' club, Hendon FC, confirmed his death in a heartbreaking statement on Tuesday, November 3.
"We are stunned and heartbroken to announce the sudden and tragic passing of midfielder Ezekiel Williams yesterday afternoon aged 26," the statement read.
Just 10 days before his death, Williams had scored his first goal for the club during a match against Jersey Bulls.
Hendon remembered the midfielder as "a humble, unassuming and generous individual with a razor-sharp wit."
Following the news, the club postponed its London Senior Cup fixture against Woodford Town, originally scheduled for Wednesday, to allow players and coaching staff time to grieve.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Ezekiel's family, friends, and everyone who knew him at this devastating time. He will be very sadly missed by all of us at Hendon Football Club," the statement concluded.
Supporters have also rallied around Williams' family, launching a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses.
Within just two days, the fundraiser had collected more than $22,000 toward its $24,000 target.
