NHL Draft Hopeful Gavin McKenna Faces Felony Aggravated Assault Charge
Gavin McKenna, a promising forward for the Penn State hockey team, is facing serious legal challenges. The 18-year-old has been charged with felony aggravated assault stemming from an altercation that took place in State College, Pennsylvania.
Overview of the Incident
On Wednesday, police charged McKenna with felony aggravated assault after an incident on Saturday evening. The altercation occurred around 8:45 p.m. ET in the 100 block of South Pugh Street, just hours after a major outdoor game at Beaver Stadium, where Penn State played Michigan State in front of nearly 75,000 spectators.
Details of the Charges
- McKenna is accused of striking a 21-year-old man in the face.
- The victim sustained significant facial injuries requiring corrective surgery.
- In addition to felony aggravated assault, McKenna faces a misdemeanor assault charge and summary charges for harassment and disorderly conduct.
Following the charges, McKenna was arraigned and released on a $20,000 unsecure bail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 11, 2024.
Potential Legal Consequences
If convicted of first-degree felony aggravated assault, McKenna could face up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of $25,000. The severity of these penalties underscores the seriousness of the allegations against him.
McKenna’s Hockey Career
Gavin McKenna, originally from Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, is in his first season with the Nittany Lions. Prior to joining Penn State, he played three seasons in the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he gained recognition as a top NHL Draft prospect. He was previously viewed as a potential No. 1 pick and earned a significant NIL deal as the first hockey player to do so.
Current Performance and Draft Prospects
Despite the ongoing legal situation, McKenna remains a key player for his team. As of now, he has scored 11 goals and provided 21 assists in 26 games this season, tying him for the team lead with 32 points.
As the season progresses, Penn State has eight regular-season games left on their schedule. The 2026 NHL Draft is set to take place on June 26 and 27 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.
Statements from Penn State Athletics
In response to the charges, John Hanna, associate director of strategic communications for Penn State athletics, stated, “We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment.”
As this situation develops, all eyes will be on both McKenna’s legal proceedings and his performance on the ice, as he navigates a pivotal moment in his young hockey career.
