BREAKING: A 17-year-old hockey fan is recovering after being struck in the face by a puck during a Port Huron Prowlers game at McMorran Place on October 14, 2023. The shocking incident has prompted the city to consider criminal charges against the player involved, raising urgent safety concerns for fans at sporting events.
Witnesses report that Nathan Pack was celebrating a goal just before the first period buzzer when a puck unexpectedly flew into Section F, where he was seated. “I was really dizzy,” Nathan said, recalling the chaotic moment. His fellow fan, Chris Baker, described the aftermath: “There was literally blood all over the floor.”
After receiving a frantic call from Baker, Nathan’s mother, Kay-Lynn Pack, rushed him to the emergency room. Fortunately, doctors assessed Nathan’s injuries as minor despite the severity of the incident. “It could have been a lot worse,” Kay-Lynn remarked, stating that the cut could have been higher on his face.
In response to this alarming event, the city of Port Huron issued a statement, labeling the player’s actions as “reckless and intentional.” Officials are now reviewing the situation for possible criminal charges, emphasizing that the puck came within inches of hitting three minors.
“The fact that it could have hit someone else is alarming,” Baker added, underscoring the need for immediate action. Despite his injuries, Nathan expressed gratitude that he took the puck instead of another fan. “I’m glad I took the puck to the head instead of someone else,” he said.
The incident has triggered swift actions from both the Port Huron Prowlers and the Federal Prospect’s Hockey League. The Prowlers are escalating the matter for official review and have requested that the Blue Ridge Bobcats acknowledge the city’s no-trespass order against the player. The Bobcats organization has responded, stating that their recent performance does not meet the standards of their organization.
As a consequence of the incident, the player involved is facing a one-game suspension. Nathan stated, “I’m glad I got some sort of justice,” indicating a desire for accountability.
The Pack family hopes this incident will lead to enhanced safety measures at future games. “This place is a family place,” Kay-Lynn asserted, emphasizing the need for greater precautions. Nathan called the event “preventable and unnecessary,” asserting that it should never have happened in the first place.
As the city of Port Huron evaluates the potential for criminal charges and implements new safety regulations, fans and families attending sports events are left with heightened concerns about their safety. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of live sports and the need for protective measures.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
