WHL game interrupted due to crazy police incident

Last night’s Western Hockey League (WHL) game between the Brandon Wheat Kings and Kootenay Ice in Cranbrook, BC (home of the Ice) was interrupted by police (RCMP) before the start of the second period. The in arena goal judge was removed from his position by police, leading to speculation from those in attendance that he may have committed a crime.

Check out this report from Wheat Kings play by play announcer Branden Crowe:

Prior to the 2nd period tonight the game was delayed by the RCMP. After a discussion with the officials, the goal judge behind the BWK net was removed from the facility by the officer.... Thats a new one. 

2/3 The refs were ready to drop the puck when a police officer and a man in a suit came to the penalty box. The cop called the refs over and had a discussion. The refs then went to the benches to speak to the coaches. (Amidst some hidden chuckles from players on both benches)

3/3 the refs then stood around and waited as the officer removed the goal judge from the game. 

Fans at the game had no clue what was going on and were only left to speculate as to what the issue was with the removed goal judge. Well… it turns out the poor guy’s house was on fire.

Check out this update from the Kootenay Ice’s official Twitter account:

Our thoughts are with our goal judge who had to leave our game due to an unfortunate fire by all accounts everyone is safe.  Thanks to the RCMP for their great community service.

Oh man… that sucks. Not only does this guy have to deal with his home being destroyed by a fire, but he also has his name dragged through the mud on social media by people who branded him a criminal. 

As it turns out, the Ice prevailed in overtime, edging out the Wheat Kings 4-3. Of course, the next day the story was about the police incident and not the result on ice.