The Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf will not face criminal charges over a fan incident that took place during a game against the Detroit Lions.

According to ESPN, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed on May 1 that no charges will be filed against Metcalf.

"After an extensive review of all the relevant evidence, the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office has determined that charges will not issue in this case," the statement read per ESPN.

The incident occurred during a December game at Ford Field. A fan, Ryan Kennedy, approached the front railing with a Metcalf jersey, looking to get an autograph during the game.

"As he approached the front railing of the stands, he said something to Mr. Metcalf. As Mr. Metcalf approached the stands, there was a brief interaction where Mr. Metcalf grabbed his shirt and pushed him back," the statement further read.

The officials also explained the reason behind not issuing any charges.

“[Kennedy] did not appear to be injured, nor did he seek medical attention at the game,” the statement also said.

After going through video footage and speaking with witnesses, prosecutors chose not to move forward with the case.

Metcalf’s attorney, Mitch Schuster, also issued a statement and supported the outcome.

“Applaud the decision and are thankful for the hard work and thorough investigation that led to this just result,” Schuster said in a statement.

The NFL had already taken action earlier. Metcalf was suspended for two games without pay, and more than $500,000 were forfeited. Also, his $45 million in guarantees were voided.

While the criminal proceedings have come to an end, a civil action is still ongoing.

Civil Lawsuit Against DK Metcalf Remains Active

The Detroit fan, Ryan Kennedy, had also filed a civil lawsuit following the incident, as per the New York Post.

Kennedy had sued Metcalf along with the media company tied to Chad Johnson and Shannon Sharpe. The case centers on claims of “defamatory and life-altering statements” made after the incident.

Kennedy’s lawyer, Jonathan Marko, said the recent decision has “no effect” on the lawsuit.

“I think a responsible person upon seeing the video would consider that an a****** and/or a battery under the criminal law,” Marko told Detroit Free Press.

Marko also stated that the decision was “not surprising” because of the “tremendous resources” it would take to prosecute.

The case ties to comments made on the Nightcap podcast, where Johnson claimed Metcalf told him that racial language was used by the fan. Kennedy has denied that claim.

Read more at Detroit Lions Community.

Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore