A referee in Gloucester County was taken into custody after police said he allegedly strangled a youth football coach during an afternoon game.
Violence Erupts on the Sidelines
The confrontation occurred at the Franklin Township Sports Complex on Pennsylvania Avenue, where a dispute over a call quickly escalated into a physical struggle.
Witnesses reported that several spectators rushed to separate the two men, and emergency medical personnel arrived to treat the coach, a 46‑year‑old from Newfield, who suffered minor injuries.
Edward McKinnie, 47, of Blackwood, was charged with aggravated assault and released pending a court appearance, leaving the community shocked by the breach of sportsmanship.