Man found dead inside football stadium's toilets by cleaner as investigation launched

German side FC Schalke have confirmed that an investigation has been launched after a man was found dead at their stadium. The man, 65, was discovered by a cleaner in the toilets at the VELTINS-Arena on Thursday. The discovery was made on a routine inspection of the toilet facilities, with police called. Authorities quickly arrived and cordoned off the area as an investigation got underway. German outlet Bild have reported that it’s believed that the man had suffered a medical episode before collapsing. It is also reported that he was attending an event at the stadium on Wednesday before he was discovered a day later. There is currently no suggestion that there is any criminal involvement, albeit it is being questioned why no one realised the man was missing until his body was discovered the following day. It is reported that the man was a local from Gelsenkirchen. JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook page A statement from Schalke about the incident read: “FC Schalke 04 reacted with great dismay on Thursday to the news that a deceased person was found in a restroom at the VELTINS-Arena. Schalke 04 expresses its deepest condolences to the bereaved. “The investigation into the circumstances of his death is ongoing, and the club refers inquiries to the responsible police authority. “At this time, Schalke 04 will therefore not release any further information. The club is supporting the relevant authorities in their investigation with all available means.” Schalke currently lead the second tier of German football following their relegation from the Bundesliga in 2023. They have not played a home game since a 4-1 win against Preussen Munster on Sunday, April 19. They are away this weekend against Paderborn, while they will return to the VELTINS-Arena in a week’s time as they host Dusseldorf. The German side then have one further home game left this season, with a clash against Eintracht Braunschweig to come on the final day of the campaign. Schalke have been in their current home since August 2001, having previously played at the Parkstadion. The stadium currently boasts a capacity of 62,271. It hosted four games during the 2024 European Championships including England ’s group clash with Serbia, Spain’s showdown with Italy and Georgia’s game against Portugal. England then returned to the VELTINS-Arena as the Three Lions beat Slovakia. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.