Referee accused of choking coach during youth football game confrontation
The altercation began after an argument broke out over a referee's call during the game.
More Stories
A youth flag football game in Gloucester County turned chaotic after a referee allegedly choked a coach during a dispute.
The incident happened around 1:30 p.m. Sunday at the Franklin Township sports complex on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Authorities say the confrontation began as an argument over a call made during the game.
Police say the referee, identified as 47-year-old Edward McKinnie Jr. of Blackwood, allegedly grabbed a 46-year-old coach from Newfield and choked him.
The situation quickly escalated, with spectators rushing onto the field to break up the altercation.
Witnesses told officers the referee had to be physically separated from the coach.
McKinnie was arrested at the scene and taken to police headquarters. He is charged with second-degree aggravated assault.
Officials say he has since been released pending a future court appearance.
