Man Charged After Biting Medic at Beaver Stadium
A 19-year-old from Lock Haven faces multiple charges following an altercation at the Penn State-Buffalo game.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Crime — General
Police have charged 19-year-old Christian Swartwood with aggravated assault after he allegedly bit an EMS employee at Beaver Stadium. The incident occurred during the Penn State-Buffalo football game on September 19, 2026.
Why it matters
The case highlights concerns regarding public safety and the treatment of emergency personnel at large-scale sporting events. Authorities are addressing the conduct of intoxicated attendees who interfere with medical response efforts.
Christian Swartwood faces one felony count of aggravated assault along with three misdemeanor counts and four summary offenses. His bail has been set at $15,000 ahead of a preliminary hearing scheduled for September 23, 2026.
The players
Christian Swartwood
The 19-year-old Lock Haven resident is the defendant facing felony and misdemeanor charges.
Casey M. McClain
He is the Magisterial District Judge presiding over the upcoming preliminary hearing for the defendant.
The details
Officers attempted to remove the intoxicated defendant from the stadium via a stair chair when he allegedly bit an EMS employee's right hand and damaged $150 worth of sunglasses. Swartwood was ultimately sedated by medical personnel at the Beaver Stadium EMS station.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: The Penn State-Buffalo football game occurred at Beaver Stadium.
September 23, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.: A preliminary hearing is scheduled before Magisterial District Judge Casey M. McClain.
Legal Context
This case reflects broader enforcement trends regarding public intoxication and conduct at major sporting venues in Pennsylvania. Such incidents are often analyzed against the framework of the 2024 Beaver Stadium alcohol policy update regarding venue security.
Residents attending future games at Beaver Stadium should remain aware of strict stadium safety protocols and the legal consequences of disruptive behavior. Increased vigilance and security presence are common outcomes for public safety officials following such physical altercations.
The takeaway
Maintaining sobriety and respecting emergency responders is essential for the safety of both fans and medical staff during high-capacity events. Attendees who cannot follow these standards face significant legal repercussions and may be barred from future events.
Further reading
For more on local law enforcement efforts, visit the Crime — General section.
