Friend of footballer killed in Shoreham Airshow crash pays tribute

The friend of a talented footballer killed in yesterday’s horrific Shoreham Airshow accident has spoken of his shock.
Jacob Schilt was killed after a vintage aircraft crashed into the A27    Picture: Seb DalyJacob Schilt was killed after a vintage aircraft crashed into the A27    Picture: Seb Daly
Jacob Schilt was killed after a vintage aircraft crashed into the A27 Picture: Seb Daly

Worthing United midfielder Jacob Schilt, 23, died when a 1950s Hawker Hunter aircraft crashed into traffic and pedestrians on the A27.

Brett Mendoza, vice-chairman of the Robert Eaton Memorial Fund – a charity formed following the death of a Brighton & Hove Albion fan killed in the 9/11 terror attacks – had known Jacob for five years, after he registered his interest in the charity.

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Brett, 34, was working at the Grand Central Pub, in Surrey Street, Brighton, when news of Jacob’s death reached him.

He said: “It’s absolutely tragic. When you find out a mate’s dead it’s hard to take. It hasn’t really sunk in yet. I feel a bit numb.”

“He was probably the most technically gifted player we had in the squad. He was one of the shyer members of the squad but was still a good laugh a really friendly guy. No one could say a bad word against him.

“He was one of the best players I have played with, and I’m sad to see him go.”

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Seagulls fan Jacob played in three of the annual Robert Eaton Memorial Fund charity matches against Crystal Palace fans and raised nearly £1,000.

Now in light of yesterday’s events, Brett said the charity would be doing something in memory of Jacob but first needed to consult with his friends.

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