Penn State Hockey Star Gavin McKenna Charged with Felony Assault

Alleged incident occurred near a parking garage after an exchange of words

Feb. 5, 2026 at 4:15pm

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Gavin McKenna, a top NHL prospect and star forward for the Penn State hockey team, has been charged with felony assault and other charges following an alleged incident in State College, Pennsylvania. According to police records, McKenna is accused of punching a man twice after an 'exchange of words', resulting in the man suffering a broken jaw and missing tooth.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about off-the-field conduct and potential discipline for high-profile student-athletes, especially those considered top NHL draft prospects. It also highlights the challenges universities face in balancing athletic success with upholding codes of conduct.

The details

Security camera footage allegedly shows McKenna leaving a local pub shortly before the alleged assault occurred around 150 feet away near the entrance to a parking garage. The victim was taken to the hospital with a broken jaw and missing tooth, and police found blood on the sidewalk. McKenna is facing a felony assault charge as well as misdemeanor assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct charges.

  • The incident occurred around 8:45 PM on Saturday, February 4, 2026.
  • McKenna was charged on Wednesday, February 5, 2026.

The players

Gavin McKenna

A top NHL prospect and star forward for the Penn State hockey team.

The Victim

A man who suffered a broken jaw and missing tooth in the alleged assault by McKenna.

State College Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and filed charges against McKenna.

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What they’re saying

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

— John Hanna, Penn State Athletics Associate Director of Strategic Communications (The Athletic)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Gavin McKenna out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the challenges universities face in balancing the success of high-profile student-athletes with upholding codes of conduct. It raises questions about discipline and accountability for off-the-field incidents involving top prospects like McKenna.