Charlotte-Mecklenburg police on Friday arrested a 26-year-old Panthers fan who was seen on video sucker-punching a 62-year-old man during Thursday night’s Panthers-Eagles game.
Police identified the suspect as Kyle Adam Maraghy. He was charged with simple assault.
In the video, Maraghy, wearing a Cam Newton jersey, is seen punching the victim several times. Others in the stadium’s upper deck are seen attempting to break up the assault. As the victim sat bleeding from a cut to his face, Maraghy and a woman are seen leaving the crime scene.
CMPD said the assault stemmed from an argument because Maraghy was standing during the game. The victim was treated for a minor injury at the stadium, police said.
As the video spread on social media, people who saw it began calling for the assailant to be identified and arrest.
The Panthers, prior to Maraghy’s arrest, issued the following statement:
“We have reviewed video tape of the incident and have identified the perpetrator. We are working with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department to pursue charges to the fullest extent of the law. The Carolina Panthers are committed to a fan-friendly and family-friendly stadium experience. The behavior exhibited by the perpetrator is unacceptable and will not be condoned at Bank of America Stadium.”
