What allegedly happened in that bar to push Gavin McKenna into a felony assault charge

Earlier Wednesday, reports spread online that Gavin McKenna, a forward for Penn State men’s hockey and a projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, has been charged following an alleged incident last Saturday in State College, Pennsylvania.

State College police say McKenna faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault with “attempts to cause serious bodily injury or causes injury with extreme indifference,” as well as simple assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct to “engage in fighting.” If convicted on the felony charge alone, he could face up to 20 years in prison.

While details are still emerging, reports indicate that McKenna and his team were at a downtown bar with friends and family following an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. According to social media accounts and alleged witness reports, McKenna allegedly assaulted an unidentified individual, who is 21 years old, leaving him with a broken jaw.

Some unverified accounts suggest the altercation stemmed from the individual harassing McKenna’s mother, with McKenna intervening. One alleged witness shared a text claiming the victim suffered a jaw fractured in three places, a concussion, and three missing teeth.

These details have not been independently confirmed by police, and the investigation is ongoing. Meanwhile the hashtag Free McKenna has been trending.

Later on Wednesday evening, a statement was made by State College (Pa.) police on charges filed against McKenna, explaining how criminal complaint indicates the incident was caught on street cameras with McKenna allegedly punching the victim twice in the face after an “exchange of words.”

It also adds that, since this is an active case, no further information will be released at this time.

McKenna was released on a $20k unsecured bail and his arraignment will be held on February 11.

McKenna has been widely regarded as a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft. This season, he has recorded 11 goals and 21 assists for 32 points and recently scored against Michigan State at Beaver Stadium. At just 18, he is the youngest player on Penn State and has represented Canada internationally, including back-to-back World Junior Championships. He joined Penn State after three seasons with the Western Hockey League’s Medicine Hat Tigers.

The NHL is reportedly aware of the charges but has declined to comment on the situation. This is the statement from the Penn State men's hockey program to ESPN:

"We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment."

Fans were also taking a close look at some of McKenna's teammates' comments on his most recent Instagram post.