There is no doubting that every single death in the Paris terror attacks was a sickening tragedy.
Still, many were particularly concerned about the well-being of a Premier League footballer they knew well and admired. Once it became apparent that Crystal Palace defender Martin Kelly was present amidst the horror of Friday night, fans were understandably worried about him.
It perhaps inevitably led to confusion and misinformation on the internet. Many were convinced that they had spotted the former Liverpool man in photos, either taking cover with local officials, or helping injured victims to safety…
Martin Kelly? pic.twitter.com/bCAAjmVDLf
— We Are Liverpool (@ShanksWasBoss) November 14, 2015
https://twitter.com/seddo1984/status/665522982102695937
Crystal Palace were quick to clarify that the individual in the images circulating social media was not the 25-year-old Merseysider, and that the player was safe and well…
We have been in contact with @MartinKelly1990 tonight and can confirm he is safe and well.
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) November 14, 2015
Now Kelly himself has reiterated that he is both healthy, and not the man assumed to be him. He also took the opportunity to express his empathy towards those who were not as lucky as him on the fateful night…
I've seen pictures of a guy who looks like me helping the victims, just to clarify this wasn't me.
— Martin Kelly (@MartinKelly1990) November 14, 2015
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives last night #Prayers4Paris
— Martin Kelly (@MartinKelly1990) November 14, 2015