WORLD CUP VOLUNTEER KILLED BY SPEEDING DRIVER IN LOS ANGELES

Aaron Avery, aged 22, was struck by a speeding vehicle near SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on 15 June whilst returning home from his second shift as a volunteer at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The collision occurred at approximately 10.30pm local time as Mr Avery walked from the venue following his work with the security team at a match between Iran and New Zealand. He was transported to hospital in critical condition with multiple injuries, including severe brain trauma, and was declared dead despite medical intervention.

Mr Avery's family, based in Los Angeles, described him as a caring and dedicated son committed to helping his community. According to reports, Mr Avery donated his heart, lungs, liver and kidneys, which medical staff indicated could potentially benefit up to eight recipients. His family has established a fundraising appeal with a target of $20,000 (approximately £15,000) to cover end-of-life costs, medical expenses and funeral arrangements, which had collected more than $11,000 (£8,300) by the time of reporting.

The driver responsible for the collision has not been named in available reports. Law enforcement authorities have not yet released details of charges or proceedings related to the incident. Mr Avery's death marks a significant loss within the volunteer workforce supporting the World Cup tournament in California.