Port Adelaide released a statement which advised that "John, 22, was holidaying in the United States with 10 team mates. The club was informed by US authorities in Las Vegas this morning that John had died as a result of injuries sustained in a fall from a building. The circumstances of the tragedy are still being investigated."
Lions CEO Malcolm Holmes expressed the deepest sympathies on behalf of the Club.
“At just 22 years of age, John was a young man whose life has been tragically cut way too short,” Holmes said.
“His passing has devastated everyone in the football community.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are extended to John’s family and friends at this very difficult time - as well both the Port Adelaide and Collingwood Football Clubs.”
Som of the Lions players have already expressed their sadness today via Twitter:
Jesse O'Brien: Thoughts go out to John McCarthys family, friends and teammates. Sad day for AFL. #restinpeace
Tom Rockliff: Terrible news of the passing of John McCarthy RIP. Sad day for the whole football community. Thoughts with his family, friends
Sam Docherty: RIP John McCarthy #sadday #shock
Claye Beams: Very very sad day for the afl, thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends #RIP
Pearce Hanley: very sad day for the afl... thoughts go out to his family friends and teammates
