Update, Thursday, February 5:

Onward State has received a copy of the affidavit of probable cause detailing the facts and circumstances that led to the filing of the arrest warrant. Read more here.

Update, 10:15 p.m.:

Onward State has reviewed court records showing that McKenna posted $20,000 bail after being arraigned before Judge McClain at 8:15 p.m. Wednesday evening.

State College police added in a statement that on Wednesday night, Gavin McKenna allegedly struck a 21-year-old, causing facial injuries that required corrective surgery. McKenna is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on February 11.

Update, 6:30 p.m.:

“We are aware that charges have been filed; however, as this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not have any further comment,” said a Penn State Athletics spokesperson to Onward State’s request to comment.

Original Post

Penn State men’s hockey forward Gavin McKenna was charged following an alleged altercation in downtown State College late Saturday night. The incident occurred along the 100 block of South Pugh Street, with a report filed at 10:35 p.m.

State College police charged McKenna, 18, with felony aggravated assault that “attempts to cause serious bodily injury or causes injury with extreme indifference,” misdemeanor simple assault, and two summary offenses for disorderly conduct and harassment. If found guilty, McKenna faces up to 20 years in prison on the felony charge alone.

According to sources, the team had been at a downtown bar with friends and family following the outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. During the incident, McKenna allegedly assaulted an unidentified individual, leaving the victim with a broken jaw.

McKenna is considered a potential first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. He has recorded 32 points this season, tallying 11 goals and 21 assists, and scored against Michigan State at Beaver Stadium.

This story will be updated with more information as it is released.

James Russell, Alex Smith, CJ Gill, and Sophie Yadzinski also reported on this story.