The felony aggravated assault charge against Penn State hockey freshman Gavin McKenna — projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft — was dropped Friday, Centre County prosecutors said.
McKenna, who was arrested Wednesday after allegedly punching a 21-year-old man in the face twice in State College, is still facing a misdemeanor charge of simple assault and offenses for harassment and disorderly conduct.
Two witnesses told the police that McKenna’s and the other male’s groups allegedly “exchanged words” before the hockey star got physical.
The incident happened just a few hours after Penn State’s outdoor game against Michigan State.
McKenna was later released from jail on $20,000 bail.
The victim was treated for a broken jaw and “could barely speak,” per the police.
He later underwent surgery for his injuries.
However, prosecutors determined Friday that McKenna “did not act with the intent to cause serious bodily harm nor did he recklessly act with extreme indifference to the value of human life,” and have thus decided to withdraw the charge.
McKenna was previously facing up to 20 years in jail and/or a $25,000 fine under Pennsylvania law before Friday’s decision.
Penn State told The Post after the incident that it was aware of the situation, but it’s unclear if McKenna will face any punishment from the school as well.
The Nittany Lions’ next game is slated for Feb. 13.
Prior to the altercation, McKenna had racked up 11 goals and 21 assists (32 points) in 24 games for the Nittany Lions.
He previously played in the World Junior Hockey Championship for Canada and logged three seasons for the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers.
