Stuart Pearce’s Son Dies in Tractor Crash

The football world and beyond are currently mourning the tragic loss of Harley Pearce, the 21-year-old son of former England international and Nottingham Forest legend, Stuart Pearce. Harley’s untimely death occurred following a tractor crash in the Cotswolds on October 16, 2025. This profoundly saddening event has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of grief and condolences for Stuart Pearce and his family.

I aim to provide a detailed, analytical, and informative account of this heartbreaking incident. The tone remains neutral while exploring the facts surrounding Harley’s passing and its impact on those closest to him. The focus is on factual accuracy and respectful reporting. Public interest is balanced with sensitivity to a family’s personal tragedy.

Personal Details

About Stuart Pearce

Stuart Pearce, affectionately known as “Psycho” during his playing days, is an iconic figure in English football. Born on April 24, 1962, Pearce’s career spanned over two decades, primarily as a formidable defender. He earned 78 caps for England, famously representing his country in the 1990 World Cup and Euro 96. His club career saw him make over 400 appearances for Nottingham Forest, where he also served as captain, winning two League Cups and the Full Members Cup.

Beyond his playing career, Pearce transitioned into management, taking charge of Manchester City and Nottingham Forest, and also held roles with the England U21 team and as caretaker manager for the senior national squad. More recently, he has been a respected pundit on talkSPORT and was a first-team coach for West Ham United. Pearce’s public persona has often been one of strength and resilience, making this personal tragedy particularly poignant for his many fans and colleagues.

About Harley Pearce

Harley Pearce, at just 21 years old, was the younger of Stuart Pearce’s two children with his former wife, Liz. He was described by his family as a “golden boy with an infectious smile” who left an “unforgettable imprint on all who knew him”. Harley pursued a career in the farming industry, exhibiting a “wonderful work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit” and ran his own company, Harley Pearce Agricultural Service.

His family’s statement highlighted their immense pride in the young man he had become, noting his quiet, understated strength and deep kindness. The tributes from his family and those who knew him paint a picture of a cherished son and brother, deeply loved and now profoundly missed. Harley also has an older sister, Chelsea, who is an accomplished equestrian.

How Harley Pearce Died

Harley Pearce tragically died on Thursday, October 16, 2025, after being involved in a single-vehicle tractor crash. Emergency services were called to the scene on the A417 Old Birdlip Hill in Witcombe, near Gloucester, Gloucestershire, at approximately 2:30 pm. Harley, who was driving the tractor and was from Marlborough in Wiltshire, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gloucestershire police confirmed the details of the collision, stating that no other vehicles were involved. Local reports have suggested that the tractor may have suffered a tyre blow-out, which could have led to him losing control and veering off the road. The incident occurred approximately 50 miles from his family home. Following the tragedy, Harley’s family issued a heartfelt statement via the police, expressing their profound shock and heartbreak. They also requested privacy during this immensely difficult time.

Conclusion

The passing of Harley Pearce is a profound loss for Stuart Pearce and his family. The community reflects on a young life tragically cut short and extends heartfelt sympathies to all affected. Tributes from football clubs, colleagues, and the public highlight the deep respect for Stuart Pearce and the shared sorrow for his family’s ordeal. This tragedy is a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and how unexpected loss can touch even the most well-known figures.