German club FC Schalke have confirmed that an investigation has been launched after a man was found de@d at their stadium.
The man, 65, was discovered by a cleaner in the toilets at the VELTINS-Arena on Thursday, April 23.
The find was made during a routine inspection of the toilet facilities, with police subsequently called to the scene. Officers swiftly arrived and cordoned off the area as an inquiry got underway. German publication Bild has reported that it is believed the man suffered a medical episode before collapsing.
It is also understood that he had been attending an event at the stadium on Wednesday before his body was discovered the following day.
There is currently no indication of any criminal involvement, though questions are being raised as to why nobody noticed the man was missing until his body was found the next day. It is understood that the man was a local resident from Gelsenkirchen.
A statement from Schalke regarding 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 de@th 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.”