Criminal charges are expected to be filed this week against the football fan who fell from the top deck of Ralph Wilson Stadium into the stands below during Sunday’s Buffalo Bills game.
The Erie County Sheriff’s Office is expected to announce charges against Robert Hopkins, 29, of Grand Island. There was no indication what charges he will face.
Earlier this week, sources said two possible misdemeanor charges – third-degree assault and reckless endangerment – are being considered.
One source close to the investigation said, “We don’t think it was intentional. It was reckless what he did.”
The Bills on Monday banned Hopkins from Ralph Wilson Stadium as a result of the incident. Hopkins also lost his job in advertising and public relations with Eric Mower and Associates.
Hopkins could be seen sliding in a seated position down a railing in the 300 level during the game against the New York Jets and then toppling backward and falling 20 to 25 feet into the 200 section. Authorities said he landed on another fan.
Both men were taken to a hospital and later released.
The man who fell hurt his shoulder, while officials said the man he struck suffered a head and/or neck injury.
The incident apparently was recorded by network television cameras. Video posted on several websites shows the indistinct figure of a man sliding on the railing, then tipping over the side.
Officials said the Bills have clearer video of the incident.
email: jstaas@buffnews.com
The Erie County Sheriff’s Office is expected to announce charges against Robert Hopkins, 29, of Grand Island. There was no indication what charges he will face.
Earlier this week, sources said two possible misdemeanor charges – third-degree assault and reckless endangerment – are being considered.
One source close to the investigation said, “We don’t think it was intentional. It was reckless what he did.”
The Bills on Monday banned Hopkins from Ralph Wilson Stadium as a result of the incident. Hopkins also lost his job in advertising and public relations with Eric Mower and Associates.
Hopkins could be seen sliding in a seated position down a railing in the 300 level during the game against the New York Jets and then toppling backward and falling 20 to 25 feet into the 200 section. Authorities said he landed on another fan.
Both men were taken to a hospital and later released.
The man who fell hurt his shoulder, while officials said the man he struck suffered a head and/or neck injury.
The incident apparently was recorded by network television cameras. Video posted on several websites shows the indistinct figure of a man sliding on the railing, then tipping over the side.
Officials said the Bills have clearer video of the incident.
email: jstaas@buffnews.com