October 21, 2025

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Incident Overview
Harley Pearce, the 21-year-old son of England football great Stuart Pearce, has died in a tragic tractor crash near Gloucester in the United Kingdom.

The fatal incident occurred last week in a rural area outside Gloucester. Early reports suggest the tractor suffered a tyre blow-out, causing it to overturn. Harley, who was the youngest of Stuart Pearce’s two children with ex-wife Liz, died at the scene despite emergency response efforts.

The family released a statement through local police describing their devastation and paying tribute to Harley’s “golden heart” and “entrepreneurial spirit” in the farming industry.

“Our family is truly shocked and utterly heartbroken at the loss of our cherished son and devoted brother, Harley… He was a golden boy with an infectious smile, and this shocking tragedy will leave a huge hole in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.” — The Pearce Family

Location and Time

  • Incident Date: Approximately Monday, October 13, 2025 (confirmed death “last week”)
  • Location: Rural area near Gloucester, England, United Kingdom

Vehicles Involved

  • Farm tractor operated by Harley Pearce (fatal)

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatality:
    • 21-year-old male, Harley Pearce — died at the scene from injuries sustained in the tractor crash.
  • Serious Injuries:
    • No other injuries reported.

Emergency Response

  • Emergency services attended the crash site near Gloucester following reports of a tractor rollover.
  • Harley was found deceased at the scene.
  • Local police established a crash investigation, focusing on possible mechanical failure, including a suspected tyre blow-out.

“Local reports suggest the tractor may have suffered a tyre blow-out.” — UK Police / 7NEWS UK

Police Investigation
Local authorities are investigating the circumstances of the single-vehicle rollover, examining:

  • Mechanical integrity of the tractor and condition of its tyres.
  • Whether terrain or road conditions contributed to the incident.
  • Timeline and sequence of events leading to the tractor’s loss of control.

Family and Community Tributes
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief across the UK football community.

Harley’s partner, Holly Watts, left a heartfelt note at the crash scene:

“To my hunny, the man I’ll love forever… You know you have my heart, and I know I have yours. I’ll cherish us forever. Forever in your arms, forever in our heart. I love you!” — Holly Watts

Messages of condolence have been shared by Nottingham Forest, Coventry City, the England national team, and colleagues of Stuart Pearce at talkSPORT, where he currently works as a football commentator.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Harley Pearce… The thoughts of everyone connected with Nottingham Forest are with Stuart and his family at this truly difficult time.” — Nottingham Forest FC

“It makes no sense. Sometimes life makes no sense… We are sending love to Stuart Pearce and his loved ones after the passing of his son Harley.” — Adrian Durham, talkSPORT

Community Impact
The Pearce family’s loss has resonated across the UK sporting world, with tributes pouring in from football fans and fellow professionals alike. Harley was remembered for his “quiet strength,” “deep kindness,” and his dedication to the farming industry. The family described him as their “shining star,” noting his entrepreneurial drive and commitment to hard work.

Stuart Pearce, a former England captain and Premier League manager, is regarded as one of English football’s most respected figures, heightening the widespread grief over the tragedy.

Appeal for Information
Gloucestershire Police are continuing inquiries and have urged any witnesses or individuals with information about the crash to contact local authorities.