Gary Lineker’s nephew-in-law has tragically died after a tree trunk fell on him and crushed his body.
During an inquest that began last week, it was confirmed that 18-year-old Jonty Parkinson was left with fatal injuries following an accident involving a falling tree trunk in Eaton Hastings, Oxon, in the United Kingdom.
According to a report by the Mirror, senior coroner Darren Slater said that the teenager sustained fatal injuries to his abdomen while working on September 6.
While medical professionals tried their best to treat the young boy, unfortunately, he succumbed to the injuries and was pronounced dead on the same day.
Lineker’s sons George, 31, and Tobias, 28, have expressed their devastation upon hearing the news of their late family member.
George took to his Instagram Stories to share a picture of himself with Jonty when he was younger with a caption that read: “One of the nicest boys you’ll meet, taken far too soon. Fly high cousin, you’ll be missed by all.”
Tobias Lineker posted an old picture of the teen smiling and added: “Taken from us far too soon, rest in peace little cousin.”
Jonty’s grandmother, Sue Parkinson, who has a handful of boutiques named after her, took to the company’s social media pages to post a heartfelt statement about the death of her grandson.
“We are devastated to have to share the news that Jonty Parkinson – Bob & Ali’s son, Sue & John’s grandson, and Sally’s nephew – passed away on Friday 6th September,” the statement read.
“As a family we wanted to share our gratitude for the huge outpouring of love we’ve received at such a difficult time,” it continued before adding: “The fact that our staff and customers are continuing to support our family business while we deal with this heartbreaking loss means so much to us, so thank you.”
The 18-year-old’s funeral took place on Friday where family members were allowed to give their loved one a final farewell.
Since then, tributes have been pouring in for the family, with other notable British stars close to the Lineker family wishing the family well during this difficult period.
Sky Sports News presenter Alex Hammond, said: “I’m so sorry to hear this awful news guys. Sending love to you all.”
A GoFundMe page was also set up in memory of Jonty, to help the family “create a beautiful memorial or event to celebrate the life of their much-loved son Jonty.”
The description went on to refer to him as a “very special” and “beautiful young man” before adding: “I realize money can’t fill the great chasm of loss they are feeling, but I hope it can be used to ease the burden of funeral expenses or go towards a fitting memorial for Jonty.”
So far, approximately $42,600 (£32,000) has been raised for the family.
Gary Lineker is related to Jonty through his first marriage to Michelle Cockayne, with whom he shares four children. Jonty’s mum Ali is Cockayne’s biological sister.
A date for the full inquest has yet to be confirmed, as reported by the Mirror.