Friends and family of the ex-Wigan Warriors player who plunged to his death from an Ibiza balcony are campaigning for an inquiry into his death.
Luke Rhoden’s father Norman is preparing to fly out to Ibiza see his son’s body for the first time after his death.
‘Justice for Luke’ is the cry from family and frriends, after video footage surfaced on the internet of the 25-year-old being allegedly ‘beaten up’ by Spanish police minutes before he died.
The ex-rugby league player, who was on a stag do in San Antonia, plunged from a first floor balcony last Tuesday at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel.
Luke survived the fall but according to police he died shortly after suffering a heart attack as police attempted to restrain him.
Norman Rhoden, who is due to fly to Ibiza on Tuesday wrote on Facebook thanking those who had come forward as witnesses and continued to spread the news of his son’s death.
He said: “I just want to say to all the response and support for my son has been Luke Rhoden has been immeasurable!!! This weekend people who have arrived back from Ibiza and witnessed my son’s MURDER and are prepared to make statements to what they have seen has been fantastic!
“I fly out on Tuesday to see my son’s body… The pain I feel can’t be described but I will fight them with everyone’s support. PLEASE keep up the good work! Love you all!”
Supporters have also set up an e-petition that is due to be active within 7 days demanding a public inquiry into Luke’s death.
Facebook user Debbie Hughes said: “I have now created an e-petition on the Government’s website demanding a public enquiry in to the unlawful killing of this wonderfully talented young man, I had the pleasure of knowing personally.
“If this could be signed by all who had the pleasure of knowing Luke and all of those who have been touched by his charismatic charm and energetic flair for life in any way, then these devastating acts of police brutality towards this beautiful soul will have affected you all.
“The petition will go live within the next seven days so we can all pledge our support for his family and friends, I will post the link on this page as soon as it becomes live all…. Please support JUSTICE FOR LUKE.”
DJs and promoters have also joined forces to organise a night of live music on September 14 to raise money for the repatriation the former Wigan Warriors player’s body.
Supporters are also urging people to contact police with any more information including videos and pictures regarding the incident.
Luke played for Wigan Warriors academy between 2007 and 2008, before playing semi-professionally at Oldham Roughyeds.
ANY witness info about what happened to Luke Rhoden please contact DC Matthew Moore – 0161 856 7279 or 07554331097 #justiceforluke
— Alison Rimmer (@MKWarrior78) September 8, 2014
Images via Facebook.
