Football participant killed in ‘stunning’ incident on evening out as membership pays tribute

Mckenzie Dicicco, 22, of Harsley Road, Stockton-on-Tees, has been charged with murder and affray and according to British Transport Police, is expected to make an appearance at York Magistrates’ Court

A football club has been left “devastated” by the loss of one of it goalkeepers. James Hitchcock is understood to have died on a night out in York after being involved in an alleged assault. The Barton Town FC player and married father of one passed away on Wednesday (December 18) following the incident near York station on Sunday (December 15).

In his 30s and from Cottingham in East Yorkshire, James has been described as a “popular but quiet” member of the club, which said its “heartfelt thoughts and prayers” go to his loved ones.

Chairman Mark Gregory told the Daily Star: “Obviously it’s a horrible time for the football club and it’s a horrible time for non-league – it’s shocking”.

Mckenzie Dicicco, 22, of Harsley Road, Stockton-on-Tees, has been charged with murder and affray. According to British Transport Police, he is expected to make an appearance at York Magistrates’ Court.

At 20.45am on Sunday, officers were called to the station following reports that the victim had suffered serious head injuries.

Mr Gregory previously told other outlets: “The news of James’s death has been hard to take in. It’s horrible. James was a popular member of the club. We are all devastated. We are a very close-knit club.”

He described him as a “very good goalkeeper” and said he had contacted members of the club personally to inform them of his death.

He added: “James was a lovely kid. Just a genuine, all round good guy. He is irreplaceable both as a friend and a player.

“On behalf of the club, I would like to extend my condolences to James’s family and friends.”