Owner of English football club killed in ‘tragic accident’ on Cape Cod on Fourth of July

The owner of a popular English football club was killed in a “tragic accident” on Cape Cod on the Fourth of July, local authorities and team officials said.

John G. Berylson, 70, of Wellesley, was driving a 2019 Range Rover on Sippewissett Road in Falmouth around 8 a.m. Tuesday when he lost control on a curve, left the road, rolled over in a ravine, and came to rest against a tree, according to the Falmouth Police Department.

Berylson, the owner and chairman of Millwall Football Club, was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, the South London-based football club said, “It is with a collective broken heart and the deepest of regret that we announce the passing of our beloved owner and chairman, John Berylson. John, who turned 70 last month, lost his life in a tragic accident on Tuesday morning.”

Millwall placed 8th in the English League Championship last season, finishing with a record of 19-11-16. The Championship is the second tier of English football.

“Under John’s passionate leadership and guidance, Millwall Football Club enjoyed tremendous success and stability,” the team said of Berylson. “He has presided over some of the greatest moments in Millwall history, and his influence in providing the platform for those was immeasurable.”

After news of Berylson’s death rocked the Millwall community, team manager Gary Rowett and captain Shaun Hutchinson shared emotional words about his legacy, calling him an “incredible man” who meant the world to the club, players, and fans.

“He was truly a great man, incredibly devoted to his family, and a person of such remarkable generosity, warmth, and kindness,” the team said of Berylson. “He lived a storied life, one full of color and joy, and was infinitely thoughtful of others with an endless desire to share his immense knowledge and experiences to help people.

Millwall CEO Steve Kavanagh said Berylson was the best club owner he ever got to work with.

“What he did for Millwall over so many years was both extraordinary and exemplary,” Kavanagh said.

Millwall football players gathered Wednesday morning for a moment of silence in the wake of Berylson’s passing.

Berylson attended Harvard Business School and Brown University. He also served as a member of the Board of Trustees and in numerous leadership roles for nearly two decades at the former Beth Israel Hospital and BIDMC.

“His leadership was instrumental during a period of significant change for the organization, and the foundation he helped to build is a testament to his vision and commitment to improving the health and well-being of individuals throughout the greater Boston community,” said Pete Healy, President of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. “Our thoughts are with John’s family during this tragic time.”

Berylson leaves behind his wife, Amy, and three children, Jennifer, James, and Elizabeth.

The crash remains under investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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