Penn State Hockey Star Faces Reduced Charges

Prosecutors drop most serious assault charge against top NHL draft prospect Gavin McKenna

Feb. 6, 2026 at 6:39pm

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Prosecutors in Pennsylvania have dropped the most serious assault charge against Penn State hockey star Gavin McKenna, a likely top pick in the upcoming NHL draft. McKenna remains accused of less serious offenses related to an altercation that left a man with injuries to his jaw, but authorities say video evidence led them to downgrade the charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges prosecutors face in balancing public safety concerns with the rights of high-profile student-athletes. McKenna's status as a top NHL prospect adds additional scrutiny to the legal proceedings.

The details

McKenna, an 18-year-old freshman center from Whitehorse, Yukon, was originally charged with aggravated assault, which would have required proof he acted with the intention of causing serious injury. However, the Centre County District Attorney said subsequent investigation showed the victim sustained two fractures to the same side of his jaw, rather than injuries to both sides, and did not lose any teeth as initially alleged. Video evidence also led authorities to drop the felony charge.

  • The incident occurred hours after Penn State lost to No. 2 Michigan State in an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium on February 4, 2026.
  • The preliminary hearing for McKenna has been rescheduled for March 11, 2026.

The players

Gavin McKenna

An 18-year-old freshman center on the Penn State hockey team, considered a likely top pick in the upcoming NHL draft.

Bernie Cantorna

The Centre County District Attorney who decided to drop the most serious assault charge against McKenna.

Jason Dunkle

The lawyer representing Gavin McKenna.

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What they’re saying

“Video evidence led me and police to drop the felony charge.”

— Bernie Cantorna, Centre County District Attorney (mymotherlode.com)

What’s next

The preliminary hearing for McKenna has been rescheduled for March 11, 2026, where the remaining charges of misdemeanor simple assault, harassment, and disorderly conduct will be addressed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the nuances involved in prosecuting high-profile student-athletes, where authorities must carefully weigh the evidence and charges to ensure a fair process while also addressing public safety concerns. The downgrading of the most serious charge against McKenna demonstrates the importance of thorough investigations and reliance on objective evidence.