CONTACT:
David Howe, Assistant District Attorney
(408) 792-2633
DISTRICT ATTORNEY DECISION ON HOCKEY FAN INCIDENT
After a thorough review of the evidence, the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office will not pursue criminal charges in the case in which a young hockey fan was injured at a San Jose Sharks game late last year, prosecutors announced Tuesday.
The 16-year-old fan of a visiting team was hurt at a December 28, 2011 game, after which she was treated at a local hospital. Police interviewed multiple witnesses. The matter was forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office. After the review, prosecutors determined that there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a criminal act had occurred, or that a specific suspect could be identified.
“Our hearts go out to the young woman and her family. No fan should worry about their safety at a sporting event,’’ said Assistant District Attorney David Howe. “However, the evidence is insufficient to establish who committed the act that resulted in the teen’s injuries and whether the act was intentional, or accidental.” The family of the young woman has been notified of the decision, according to Howe.