A college football player crossed the line Saturday night, punching an official in the face and prompting a police investigation resulting in his arrest.
Mount San Antonio College offensive lineman Bernard Schirmer punched a referee, causing authorities from Ventura County, California, to review game tape and interview those in involved with the game.
Here’s the transgression, plain as day near the end:
VIDEO: Mt. SAC lineman punches referee between plays at Ventura College (video by @SoCalCollegeSpo) @scfafootball pic.twitter.com/ZD4vejJRYp
— VCStar CollegeSports (@vcscolleges) September 11, 2016
Authorities were prompt in investigating the altercation:
Gives a new meaning to “under review” @VCAthletics @VCPirateFB @scfafootball @MtSAC_athletics pic.twitter.com/eovwo95CtS
— VCStar CollegeSports (@vcscolleges) September 11, 2016
Ventura College police taking statements from other members of officiating crew after the game. pic.twitter.com/TeFAI6FhcX
— VCStar CollegeSports (@vcscolleges) September 11, 2016
Joe Curley of the Ventura County Star added context:
Trainers from both teams immediately raced onto the field to tend to the injured official. He was replaced by a spotter and did not return to the game.
School administrators from both schools met with officials on the field. Under California Community College Athletic Association bylaws, striking a game official is punishable by a five-year ban.
The player responsible has already received his ban:
.@MtSAC football player Bernard Schirmer says accidental punch knocked out ref. His story & apology At 11p @NBCLA pic.twitter.com/5Cjgy8RIju
— Adrian Arambulo (@AdrianNBCLA) September 13, 2016
More to come as Schirmer gets to tell his side of the story.