Diogo Jota death latest: Liverpool FC ‘devastated’ after footballer killed in car crash aged 28

Police have confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the incident in which Diogo Jota and Andre Silva died.

Angela Rayner described the death of Diogo Jota as “absolutely heartbreaking” as she visited Anfield to pay her respects.

The Deputy Prime Minister told broadcasters: “It’s heartbreaking. It is absolutely heartbreaking, and just shows how life events can change really quickly.

“You know, I’m absolutely devastated for his wife and his children and his family. I can’t imagine what they’re going through at the moment. My son’s 28 and it just, it’s really shocking.”

Ms Rayner described Jota as one of Liverpool’s “greatest strikers”, and said the news was “devastating” for people who had woken up to it on Thursday morning.

LeBron James has said his prayers go out to Diogo Jota’s loved ones as he paid tribute.

In a post on X, Liverpool fan James said: “My prayers goes out to his loved ones during this time! May you all be guided and protected! YNWA JOTA!!”

Jota, 28, was a father of three and had married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, less than two weeks ago. It was also confirmed that Jota’s brother Andre, 26, died in the accident.

Tributes have poured in for the siblings, with Liverpool releasing a statement saying the club is “devastated by the tragic passing” of the 28-year-old. Portuguese prime minister Luis Montenegro called the incicdent “a sad day for football and for national and international sports”.

Diogo Jota and his brother’s boyhood club has paid tribue to them, describing their “pain, disbelief and respect” following the pair’s deaths.

Gondomar SC said in a post on Facebook: “We are grounded.

“Today we mourn the tragic and premature departure of two young men who proudly wore the Gondomar Sport Club jersey.

“Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, ex-athletes from our team, lost their lives unexpectedly.

“To the family, friends and everyone who shared moments with Diogo and Andre, we leave our deepest solidarity and affection.

“Gondomar SC is a silent club today. And this silence is one of pain, disbelief and respect.

“We will forever cherish the memory of these two with the pride of having watched them grow as exemplary athletes and young men.

“R.I.P. Diogo and Andre.”