Hillsborough enquiry: victims’ relatives will never get justice
Written by David FletcherA major new report has confirmed extensive police failings before and after the 1989 Hillsborough stadium disaster, which killed 97 Liverpool fans - the UK’s worst sporting tragedy. After a decade-long investigation, the Independent Office for Police Conduct found that twelve officers would have faced charges of gross misconduct had they not already retired, leaving families devastated that no one will ever be held accountable. Those who lost loved ones in the crush condemned the outcome as another profound injustice. The report also criticised the initial police review as biased and found further evidence clarifying how police decisions, including the opening of an exit gate, led to the fatal overcrowding. Previous inquests concluded that supporters had been unlawfully killed and discredited early attempts to blame fans. Despite official apologies and admissions of catastrophic failure, no officer has ever been convicted. Families say the proposed ‘Hillsborough Law’ cannot compensate for truth acknowledged without accountability.
Additional Info
- Pray: that comfort, justice, and enduring strength uphold all who still carry grief from the Hillsborough tragedy. (Psalm 34:17)
- More: www.aljazeera.com/sports/2025/12/2/report-finds-widespread-police-failings-over-uks-hillsborough-disaster