As reported this week, the investigation into the incident following this past Wednesday’s basketball game between Benton Harbor and Buchanan is ongoing.
After the semi-final district playoff game concluded, a game official was struck by multiple objects, prompting an investigation by the Michigan High School Athletic Association.
While the inquiry is still in progress, MHSAA Officials Department Specialist Jeff Spedoske tells us that the association will determine the next steps and any potential disciplinary measures.
“Well, this is one of our tournament games, so there could be some things that come from us on this one,” Spedoske says. “Obviously during the regular season, schools would be making those decisions because they are hosting their games and things like that. But this is a tournament game. This is under our ultimate supervision.”
In addition to the MHSAA investigation, the Dowagiac Police Department is also investigating the matter. Dowagiac police say they have identified the players and a coach from Benton Harbor who threw the objects toward the official. Officers are still working to identify the other individuals who engaged in assaulting the referee.
The MHSAA is currently awaiting the official’s report regarding his account of the events during the game.
Both schools have released statements addressing the incident and are collaborating with the MHSAA and host school Dowagiac to decide on subsequent actions.
