Texas Trooper Removed After Clash with South Carolina Receiver Nyck Harbor
A Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper was removed from duty after an altercation with South Carolina Gamecocks receiver Nyck Harbor during a recent football game. This incident occurred during the second quarter of the match against No. 3 Texas A&M, held at Kyle Field.
Incident Overview
Nyck Harbor, a junior, made a remarkable 80-yard touchdown run, propelling South Carolina to a 27-3 lead. After scoring, Harbor, who appeared to be limping, along with his teammates, walked up a tunnel when he had an encounter with the DPS trooper.
Confrontation Details
As Harbor and running back Oscar Adaway III made their way back down the tunnel, they inadvertently bumped into the trooper. The trooper reportedly shoved both players and then directed a verbal reprimand towards Harbor.
- Location: Kyle Field, Texas A&M University
- Event: South Carolina vs. Texas A&M football game
- Score at Incident: South Carolina 27, Texas A&M 3
Following the altercation, Texas A&M campus police confirmed that they were aware of the situation and announced that the trooper had been relieved of his assignment for the day. The DPS issued an official statement confirming that the trooper was “sent home” after the incident.
Ongoing Investigations
The DPS Office of Inspector General (OIG) is monitoring the situation and will investigate further. No further information has been disclosed as of now.
Game Context and Commentary
The Gamecocks maintained a 30-3 lead at halftime but ultimately lost to the Aggies, with a final score of 31-30, marking a historic comeback for Texas A&M. Aggies quarterback Marcel Reed achieved a career-high 439 passing yards during the game.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer remarked on the professionalism of the Texas A&M operation, noting that he appreciated how swiftly they handled the incident with the trooper. He expressed support for the team’s efforts and acknowledged respect for the local community.
Reactions and Player Health
The incident garnered significant attention on social media, with notable figures, including NBA star LeBron James, calling for disciplinary action against the trooper. Throughout the game, Nyck Harbor eventually left the field in the fourth quarter after sustaining a separate injury. Beamer confirmed that Harbor was taken to the hospital for precautionary measures, following a particularly rough play.
- Harbor’s status: Taken to the hospital for evaluation
- Next game for South Carolina: Upcoming matchup against Coastal Carolina
- Season record: South Carolina’s current standing at 3-7
- Final game: Rivalry match against Clemson on November 29
This incident highlights the importance of player safety and professional conduct during sporting events. The Gamecocks will look to regroup as they face their next opponents in the coming weeks.
