Gavin McKenna, the number one prospect in the 2026 NHL draft, has been charged with several crimes following a bar fight. A text message circulating on social media now adds more details about what allegedly happened.
Gavin McKenna, 18, is widely regarded as a generational talent and is expected by most insiders and analysts to be selected first overall in the 2026 NHL draft. He currently plays for Penn State University, where he has recorded 32 points in 24 games this season.
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Gavin McKenna aggravated assault
According to Pennsylvania Magisterial District Court records, Gavin McKenna faces charges of aggravated assault, misdemeanor simple assault, and two counts of disorderly conduct for harassment and fighting. Notably, these charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Furthermore, the charges stem from an altercation at a bar on January 31, which coincidentally was the same day Penn State hosted an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. During that game, Penn State lost 5-4, with McKenna contributing one goal and two assists in front of 74,575 fans.
Was sent to hospital
Police say McKenna struck a 21-year-old man in the face, causing injuries that required surgery. McKenna was released on $20,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on February 11.
Penn State released a statement regarding the incident:
“We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment,” the statement said, according to ESPN.
Text message reveals what happened
A text message that has circulated on social media claims to provide additional context about the fight. Posted on X, it reads:
”So my brother goes to PSU and last night he was out with his friends after the hockey game. And his boy was all banged up and they saw Gavin McKenna and his mom at the bar. His boy called Gavin’s mom a wh*re and McKenna just knocked him the f*ck out. My brother had to take his friend to the hospital that night. His friend has a broken jaw in three places, a concussion, and three missing teeth lol.”
Support for Gavin McKenna
Some fans are expressing support for McKenna, suggesting the charges should be dropped because he was allegedly defending his mother.
“Call another man’s mother something that vulgar right in front of him and that’ll happen,” one fan wrote on X.
“Haha, if this is true, then I’m not even mad about it,” wrote another.
“If this is true, good for him,” a third fan added.
The text message can be seen below.
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