Longtime Philly Sports Radio Host Arrested for Alleged Assault

Mike Missanelli charged with simple assault and harassment after incident with fiancé

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:33pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked smartphone screen, the shattered glass reflecting a faint red light, conceptually representing the aftermath of a violent incident.The aftermath of an alleged assault exposes the fragility of personal relationships in the high-pressure world of sports media.Philadelphia Today

Mike Missanelli, a former Philadelphia sports radio host, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with simple assault and harassment after his fiancé alleged he open-handed slapped her during an argument about their engagement. Police reported finding blood on the woman's forehead, a cut, and a swollen ear.

Why it matters

Missanelli was a prominent figure in the Philadelphia sports media landscape, hosting a popular radio show for years. This arrest raises concerns about domestic violence in the sports media industry and the potential consequences for high-profile personalities accused of such acts.

The details

According to the police report, officers were called to a Lower Merion Township residence on Wednesday after receiving a 911 call that was immediately disconnected. When they arrived, Missanelli's fiancé alleged that he had slapped her during an argument about their engagement. Police noted visible injuries including blood on her forehead, a cut, and a swollen ear. Missanelli was charged with simple assault and harassment, and his hearing is set for April 22.

  • Police were called to the residence on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • Missanelli's hearing is scheduled for April 22, 2026.

The players

Mike Missanelli

A former Philadelphia sports radio host who hosted a popular show on 97.5 The Fanatic until 2022.

Missanelli's fiancé

The alleged victim who reported that Missanelli slapped her during an argument about their engagement.

Lower Merion (Pa.) Police

The law enforcement agency that responded to the 911 call and charged Missanelli with simple assault and harassment.

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What they’re saying

“I had some missteps but I hope the good outweighed the bad.”

— Mike Missanelli, Former Philadelphia Sports Radio Host

“Now I have nobody to blame but myself. Did I think it was a harsh result? Yeah, I do think it was a harsh result.”

— Mike Missanelli, Former Philadelphia Sports Radio Host

What’s next

Missanelli's hearing on the charges is scheduled for April 22, 2026, where a judge will determine if he will be allowed out on bail.

The takeaway

This arrest highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence in the sports media industry and the potential consequences for high-profile personalities accused of such acts. It raises questions about accountability and the industry's response to allegations of abuse.