TO high school wrestler in Illinois has been charged with assault after a video of him punching an opponent after losing a match earlier this month went viral, prompting a police investigation.
The 14-year-old offender, whose name has not been identified by police because of his age, received a citation for assault after he admitted to committing hitting his opponent at Oak Park River Forest High School on April 8, the Oak Park Police Department confirmed to Fox News Digital on Friday.
Spenser Mango’s shoes are seen on the mats in his retirement after losing his Greco-Roman 59kg semifinal match to Jesse Thielke during day 1 of the Olympic Team Wrestling Trials at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on April 9, 2016 in Iowa City, Iowa. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
The victim, who is also 14, has also not been identified by authorities.
ILLINOIS YOUTH WRESTLER SUCKER HIT OPPONENT AFTER LOSING MATCH, POLICE LAUNCHES PROBE
CBS Chicago reported that the suspect attacked his opponent out of frustration after losing the match. Police said the suspect and his family were cooperating with his investigation.
The incident took place at the 2023 Beat the Streets Developmental FS Tournament. The two athletes were competing in the final round of their category.
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The victim won the match 14-2, but when the referee invited the two players to shake hands at center mat, the suspect struck his unsuspecting opponent square in the face.
The parents ran to help the injured athlete while the referee removed the assailant from the canvas.
Gable Steveson of the Minnesota Golden Gophers leaves his shoes on the mat following his victory over Cohlton Schultz of the Arizona State Sun Devils in the 285-pound final match during the Division I Men’s Wrestling Championship held at Little Caesars Arena on March 19, 2022 in Detroit. (Jay LaPrete/NCAA Photos/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
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«We are very disappointed that this happened at one of our tournaments, which are meant to provide young people with opportunities to grow and compete in a positive and safe environment,» tournament director Mike Powell told CBS Chicago.
«We are relieved to know that the injured young man is recovering and we have taken the necessary measures so that the authorities determine the next steps.»
Police say the suspect is due to appear in court next month.