The rugby league world was shocked to its core last night when they were hit with the news that Jack Kirmond had been killed.
Just 33 years of age, the brother of former Wakefield Trinity, Huddersfield Giants and Featherstone Rovers star, Danny, had been assaulted in the early hours of Sunday morning outside Sharlston Rugby Club in Weeland Road, Wakefield.
He was taken to hospital where he later died of his injuries.
Now, West Yorkshire Police, have arrested a 38-year-old man on suspicion of murder in connection with the matter after an ambulance was called to the club at 12.18am.
DCI Sharron Kaye of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team who is leading the investigation, said: “I can confirm that Jack has now sadly died from his injuries and this is a murder investigation.
“His family are being supported by specially trained officers and we continue to hold a man in custody.
“I continue to appeal for anyone who witnessed the assault or who can assist out investigation to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team on 101, or by using the LiveChat on the West Yorkshire Police website. The log reference is 0039 of 7 August.
“Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.”
Tributes have since flooded in from far and wide with all of his brother Danny’s former clubs as well as current club York City Knights passing on their condolences.
Wakefield Trinity, for example, tweeted: “Everyone at Wakefield Trinity is saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Kirmond, brother of former captain Danny Kirmond. Our condolences are with all of Jack’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Everyone at Wakefield Trinity is saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Kirmond, brother of former captain Danny Kirmond.
Our condolences are with all of Jack's family and friends at this difficult time. ❤
— Wakefield Trinity (@WTrinityRL) August 8, 2022
Danny’s current club York tweeted: “Everyone at the Knights is saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Kirmond, brother of forward Danny Kirmond. Our condolences are with Danny, his family and friends at this time. We will be offering Danny any support he needs at this difficult time.”
Everyone at the Knights is saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Kirmond, brother of forward Danny Kirmond.
Our condolences are with Danny, his family and friends at this time. We will be offering Danny any support he needs at this difficult time.#WeAreYork⚔️
— York RLFC Knights (@YorkRLFC) August 8, 2022
Featherstone Rovers, too, sent out their condolences: “The players, staff and officials Featherstone Rovers are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Jack Kirmond, brother of former capper Danny Kirmond. Our sincere condolences go to Jack’s family and friends in this deeply distressing time.”
The players, staff and officials Featherstone Rovers are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Jack Kirmond, brother of former capper Danny Kirmond.
Our sincere condolences go to Jack’s family and friends in this deeply distressing time. #UTR | #BlueWall
— Featherstone Rovers (@FevRoversRLFC) August 8, 2022
Castleford Tigers
Castleford Tigers expecting flurry of signings
London Broncos
Super League club have “got no chance”
