The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Monkey taunt Chelsea fan, who describes himself as a 'drunken menace', goes into hiding
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Chelsea fan pictured apparently making racist “monkey” gestures at a black Manchester United player appears to have gone into hiding.
Gavin Kirkham, 28, was caught on camera and his actions have sparked investigations by police and Chelsea.
Before disappearing from his home in Letchworth Garden City, reporters asked him if he wanted to explain his actions. He said: "Not at the moment, no."
He added he was busy "trying to earn a living" and said he had not been contacted by police or
Kirkham calls himself a "drunken menace" on MySpace and lists The Football Factory - a violent movie about Chelsea hooligans - as one of his favourite films.
He was identified hours after furious Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich ordered club officials to track him down. The club are threatening to ban him from Stamford Bridge for life.
It is believed police are planning to arrest him following an official complaint of "alleged racist behaviour" during the game with Manchester United on Wednesday.