Top 2026 NHL Draft Prospect Gavin McKenna Faces Aggravated Assault Charge

Penn State men’s hockey star and top 2026 NHL Draft prospect Gavin McKenna faces an aggravated assault charge stemming from an incident occurring on Saturday, January 31st, in the evening following the team’s outdoor game at Beaver Stadium.

The incident was first reported by Onward State.

McKenna faces four charges, including a felony for aggravated assault. If found guilty, the start prospect faces up to 20 years in prison and or a $25,000 fine.

Penn State’s strategic communications released an official statement on the situation:

“We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment.”

Here is the official court document.

McKenna, a native of Whitehorse, Yukon, is in his first season at Penn State. The 18-year-old is expected to be a top selection, if not the top pick, in the 2026 NHL Draft.

Per the report by Onward State, the altercation happened at a downtown State College bar, where the victim was left with a broken jaw.

The report was filed on Wednesday, February 4th, and is awaiting a preliminary hearing.

An update on the situation regarding Gavin McKenna will come when more details about the incident become available.

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