A Texas trooper was sent home following an altercation with South Carolina player Nyck Harbor during a college football game on Saturday. The accident took place just minutes after Harbor found the end zone on an electrifying 80-yard touchdown catch and run in the second quarter. Harbor, second from left, celebrating before entering the tunnel. There, he met the trooper, who appeared to lecture him as he and three of his fellow players walked back onto the field.
The escalation became even worse once the trooper pulled a pistol on Harbor while threatening and pushing the football player into another player. Eyewitness accounts describe the trooper’s actions as completely uncalled for and clearly an overreach of authority, which led to swift backlash from the celebrity’s fans and key commentators. Video of the violent encounter quickly circulated on social media. This catalyzed national outrage over the way police act at sporting events.
The Texas Department of Public Safety moved quickly to downplay the incident. They reported that the trooper has been thrown out of the game. Air Traffic Control The Office of Inspector General is on the case. We urge them to take the time to gather all relevant facts and conduct a comprehensive investigation.
“Our Office of Inspector General is also aware of the incident and will be further looking into the matter. No additional information will be released at this time.” – Texas public safety department
While this incident got plenty of national attention, mostly after NBA superstar LeBron James commented on the controversial video. Instead, he very publicly condemned the trooper’s actions.
“That A&M cop needs to be suspended! That was premeditated and corny AF!! He went out his way to start some shit. Do better man.” – LeBron James
This incident raises some serious issues regarding police presence at sporting events. In particular, it underscores the need to be good on and off the court. Kudos to players and fans. Fans are demanding accountability and increased oversight to ensure nothing like this happens again going forward.