Penn State University hockey forward Gavin McKenna, a highly touted freshman and projected top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, is facing multiple criminal charges, including a felony count of aggravated assault, stemming from an alleged altercation on the night of January 31, 2026.
What Happened on January 31
According to court records and police reports, the incident occurred late Saturday night in downtown State College, Pennsylvania, shortly after Penn State’s outdoor hockey game at Beaver Stadium, where McKenna had played and contributed offensively.
McKenna and members of the team were reportedly at a downtown bar with friends and family when an altercation occurred.
State College police filed charges late Wednesday. McKenna, 18 years old and originally from Whitehorse, Yukon, is accused of assaulting an unidentified individual during the incident.
The alleged victim suffered a broken jaw as a result.
Charges Filed
McKenna has been charged with:
Felony aggravated assault — defined under Pennsylvania law as attempting to cause serious bodily injury or causing injury with extreme indifference to human life.
Misdemeanor simple assault.
Summary offenses including disorderly conduct and harassment.
A conviction on the first-degree felony aggravated assault count could carry a maximum prison sentence of up to 20 years and fines of up to $25,000 under Pennsylvania law.
Legal Status and Proceedings
Court records indicate McKenna is awaiting a preliminary hearing in magisterial court.
As of the latest reports, no disposition or plea has been entered, and his legal team’s strategy hasn’t been publicly disclosed.
Authorities confirm the charges were filed by the State College Police Department, and Penn State Athletics has acknowledged the situation but declined further comment due to the ongoing nature of the case.
Impact and Reaction
The incident has generated significant attention due to McKenna’s status as a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft.
Scouts and teams across the league are closely monitoring the legal developments, though it remains unclear how the charges might affect McKenna’s draft stock or future professional opportunities.
Penn State’s men’s hockey program and NCAA officials have not issued detailed public statements beyond acknowledging the charges and the procedural status.
Background on McKenna
McKenna made headlines before this incident for bypassing the Canadian junior hockey route and joining Penn State University’s Division I program, following recent NCAA eligibility rule changes.
He has been one of Penn State’s most productive players this season.
What’s Next
Preliminary hearing: McKenna will face a preliminary hearing in Pennsylvania magisterial court, where a judge will determine if there’s enough evidence for the felony case to proceed to trial.
Legal defense: His defense counsel will shape his response to the charges, likely focusing on mitigating potential consequences.
Draft implications: NHL teams will weigh the legal uncertainty when considering McKenna’s draft position, though outcomes depend heavily on how the case unfolds.
