Gavin McKenna Punching Leaves Man with Wired Jaw
Gavin McKenna, a highly regarded prospect in the National Hockey League (NHL), has recently been embroiled in a legal situation following an alleged assault. The incident occurred on January 31 in State College, Pennsylvania, where McKenna is a player for the Pennsylvania State University men’s hockey team.
Details of the Incident
According to a police affidavit, McKenna, 18, was captured on video punching a man twice in the face. This altercation resulted in serious injuries, specifically a fractured jaw that required surgical intervention and left the victim with a wired jaw.
The Assault
- Date: January 31
- Location: State College, Pennsylvania
- Victim: A male patient with severe jaw injuries
The complaint indicates that the confrontation stemmed from an exchange of words between McKenna and the victim’s group. The victim had two friends present, who identified McKenna as the assailant, recognizing him from his role on the Penn State team.
Injuries Sustained
The police officer’s affidavit details that the victim suffered fractures to both sides of his jaw and lost a tooth. Reports state that he experienced considerable pain and had difficulty speaking.
Witness Accounts and Video Evidence
The two witnesses confirmed to the police that McKenna was wearing a backwards white hat at the time of the incident. They also noted that McKenna appeared to be coming from a local pub hosting a hockey event following a game against Michigan State at Beaver Stadium.
Official Actions
- Charges Faced: Aggravated and simple assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct
- Medical Outcome: Victim underwent surgery; jaw wired shut for approximately two weeks
The police reviewed surveillance footage that reportedly shows McKenna throwing punches and causing the victim to stumble backward. The officer also noted blood found on the ground outside the location of the incident.
McKenna’s Hockey Career
This incident marks McKenna’s first season with Pennsylvania State University, following his tenure with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the Western Hockey League. In 24 games this season, he has tallied 11 goals and 21 assists, along with 34 penalty minutes. McKenna also performed well in the IIHF World Junior U-20 tournament, recording four goals and ten assists in seven games played.
Current Standing in NHL Prospects
Gavin McKenna is currently ranked as the top North American skater for the upcoming NHL entry draft. He is widely viewed as one of the top two prospects alongside Ivar Stenberg, the top international prospect.
As this situation unfolds, neither the Pennsylvania State University nor McKenna’s advisor has commented publicly. The developments around this case will likely impact both McKenna’s hockey career and his future prospects in the NHL.
