Police provide major update after death of Steve Bruce's four-month-old grandson

The tragic death of Man United legend and Blackpool boss Steve Bruce's four-month-old grandson Madison has been declared an 'accident' by police after the baby was found dead at his home in October

The tragic death of Steve Bruce's four-month-old grandson Madison has been confirmed as "an accident" by authorities.

Following the discovery of the baby's body in October at his residence, an investigation was launched by police, during which a woman in her 40s, believed to be a nanny, was apprehended on suspicion of child neglect.

Nevertheless, the investigation has concluded, with officers determining that the incident was a tragic accident. A representative for Greater Manchester Police clarified: "While the circumstances are tragic, we don't believe any criminality was linked to this death."

Last year, Madison was born to Bruce’s daughter Amy and her husband Matt Smith, who himself is a retired professional footballer known for his spells at Leeds United, Millwall, and Fulham. Bruce, 64, took time away from his managerial duties at Blackpool FC when tragedy struck, but he returned prior to Christmas.

In a recent interview discussing the profound loss within his family, the ex-Manchester United defender and Premier League title-winner revealed he contemplated quitting the football world. Despite personal heartbreak, Bruce has persevered professionally, guiding Blackpool through a potentially successful campaign in League One.

With only eight matches remaining this term, the Tangerines are challengers in the race for play-off spots, sitting just seven points behind Huddersfield Town in sixth place and showing promising form.

In an emotional interview with The Athletic, Bruce, who was recently in charge of Premier League Newcastle United for two years between 2019 and 2021, revealed: "There were times when I thought about not coming back. I'm sure people would've totally understood but sometimes football has given me a little bit of an escape from it all.

"It's been the tragedy of all tragedies. Anyone going through the same sort of grief, I feel for them. It's horrendous that a fine, young, healthy baby boy doesn't wake up one morning.... We'll never come to terms with that. It's agony."

Bruce expressed his gratitude for the support he received from the Blackpool management in the wake of the heartbreak, reports the Mirror. The incident occurred shortly after he assumed the managerial role at Bloomfield Road, marking a return to the sport after almost two years away.

The ex-Birmingham City manager next faces a challenging match against Bolton Wanderers, who are currently holding the seventh spot in the league but have seen their impressive form dip after two consecutive losses.

Subsequently, Bruce's squad gears up for a confrontation with Reading, another team looking for promotion and on a winning streak, as he aims to cement their position within play-off contention.