Victoria police have launched an assault investigation after an aggressive fan tackled Marty the Marmot at Saturday’s Victoria Royals hockey game.
The incident happened during the second period intermission of the game between the Royals and the Red Deer Rebels at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre. The man was among a group of people playing musical chairs and when he was eliminated from the contest, the man ran over and tackled the mascot to the ground.
Marty landed hard on the ice on his back and lay prone for several seconds until a staff member came over to help him to his feet.
(Scroll down to the bottom of the page for CHEK News video of the incident.)
The aggressive fan was escorted off the ice to a torrent of boos from the crowd and Marty was helped away, clearly in pain.
The man was dealt with by security but it’s still unclear if the man was ejected from the game.
Victoria police spokesman Const. Mike Russell said police have identified the aggressor and are considering assault charges. Investigators have looked at video of the incident and talked to several witnesses.
“From what we've seen, I’d say charges are likely to be recommended,” Russell said. “Officers have talked to many witnesses. Certainly there’s a fair few since there were a couple thousand people there.”
Russell said it’s unfortunate to see a playful incident turn violent.
“Any time something is done like this, where it’s not planned or not part of a skit, there has to be a certain amount of accountability,” Russell said. “We know Marty is so well loved so when something like this happens, well beyond a pat on the back or a hug, it’s far beyond what’s acceptable.”
Russell said investigators are still looking to talk to the man under the mascot suit for an interview.
On Sunday night, the Victoria Royals Hockey Club posted on Marty’s Facebook page: “We're pleased to report that Marty the Marmot is doing just fine, and is looking forward to being back in action Wednesday vs Edmonton!”
Messages of support from fans have dominated Marty’s Facebook page since the incident took place. People also posted their favourite pictures with the beloved mascot, who was recently named favourite mascot of the year in a North America-wide contest.
“Sending you more marmot love Marty... How could anyone be mean to a face like that? I hope they press charges. It's just plain wrong,” wrote one person.
“Hugs and love to you after what has to be the worst game of musical chairs I have ever heard of. Takes a special kind of stupid to attack Marty The Marmot,” wrote another woman.
On Sunday, Marty wrote: “Thanks for all the love and support this morning! Feeling good, enjoying a quiet day in the burrow.”
Many people were calling for the man to be banned from the arena.
