One of professional hockey’s most promising draft picks, Gavin McKenna, was recently charged with aggravated assault. The 18-year-old is predicted to be a first overall pick for this June’s NHL draft.
A forward at Penn State, Gavin was arrested on Wednesday, February 4. The alleged victim had surgery after the incident.
Gavin McKenna is accused of assaulting someone who had to have facial “corrective surgery”
A State College Police Department press release revealed Gavin’s charge of four total counts, including felony aggravated assault. Other charges include misdemeanor simple assault, summary harassment and summary disorderly conduct. All counts stem from a January 31 incident between Gavin and another man.
The press release says it happened in the 100 block of South Pugh Street in State College around 8:45 p.m. local time. According to police, “It is alleged that McKenna struck a 21-year-old male in the face during the altercation resulting in facial injuries requiring corrective surgery.”
Penn State’s student newspaper, The Daily Collegian, reported that the 21-year-old alleged victim lost a tooth and had his jaw wired shut after an altercation with the hockey phenom.
If convicted, Gavin faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and/or a $25,000 fine.
After his arraignment, Gavin was released on $20,000 bail, according to the statement. The Canadian native’s court date is February 11, 8:30 a.m., at the Centre County Courthouse in Bellefonte.
A Penn State spokesperson said, “We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment,” according to ESPN and Sports Illustrated.
Gavin played with Penn State’s Nittany Lions at PSU’s Beaver Stadium in a game against Michigan State on the day of the incident. Although he scored a goal and two assists, the Lions lost 5-4 in overtime.
NHL Central Scouting ranks McKenna as the top North American skater.
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