Viral video of Shaler High School hockey player, parents fighting leads to pending charges

HARMAR TOWNSHIP — A Shaler Area High School hockey player has been suspended indefinitely from play and charges are pending against two parents following a now viral video of an altercation in the stands following a game last week.

It happened back on February 10th at the Alpha Ice Complex in Harmar Township.

The video shows a junior Shaler Area High School hockey player in full uniform and skates rushing up the stands and throwing a punch directly at a Latrobe parent — before fans jump in and break it up.

Harmar Township Police are investigating the incident and say it all started between the Shaler player’s parents and a parent from opposing Greater Latrobe.

Channel 11 is not naming any of the parents in the complaint because they have not yet been charged.

According to the police report, a Latrobe parent claimed the Shaler player was too aggressive and was throwing punches on the ice during the game.

He said he wanted to talk directly to the player afterward.

The Shaler parents of the player got wind of this and became upset with the man.

Police say the Shaler mom yelled at the Latrobe father and pointed her finger at him.

The Shaler father then intervened and had to be held back by his wife.

After a few minutes of yelling the Shaler dad ran past his wife and lunged at the Latrobe dad.

The Shaler player is then seen throwing the punch.

Police say the Latrobe dad suffered a small cut on the right side of his face and below his ear.

He also injured his left ear.

The Shaler dad had cuts on his knees.

Both parents refused medical treatment.

The Shaler Area School District released this statement regarding the incident:

“Our administration has been made fully aware of the incident which occurred at this recent hockey match.The Shaler Area School District stands for a commitment to the highest level of sportsmanship for athletes, coaches and spectators at all District events. We are in the midst of a thorough investigation, together with the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League, to ensure disciplinary measures are followed for those involved in this altercation. We also encourage all families and spectators to consider the responsible use of videos and images regarding minors.” - Dr. Sean C. Aiken, Superintendent of Schools, Shaler Area School District

The PIHI told Channel 11 they are aware of the incident and are talking to all parties: “Any actions by spectators or players that jeopardizes or infringes upon the ability of our players to participate in Interscholastic hockey in a safe environment will not be tolerated.”

The PIHL says it has a disciplinary hearing and is working with the Shaler Area School District.

Harmar Township Police say charges are pending.

The officer who responded the call is still reviewing cell phone and surveillance video of the incident.

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