A Benton Harbor assistant basketball coach was fired following the incident at last week’s Benton Harbor-Buchanan basketball game, the school district announced on Tuesday.
Benton Harbor Area Schools internal investigation revealed that the coach was involved in the altercation with an official, and he is no longer with the district in any capacity. A student from Benton Harbor was also involved, but due to FERPA regulations, specific details cannot be disclosed.
The district is maintaining communication with the other schools involved, the MHSAA, and the Dowagiac Police Department. Both the MHSAA and Dowagiac Police are continuing their investigations, with no updates yet.
MHSAA Director of Communications Geoff Kimmerly tells us they are still putting the pieces together of the incident.
Superintendent Kelvin Butts emphasized that Benton Harbor Area Schools does not tolerate any acts of violence and is committed to addressing community and staff concerns, with a focus on accountability for all involved.
Benton Harbor lost to Buchanan 39-36 in the semi-final round of District Playoffs last Wednesday at Dowagiac High School. After the game, a video was captured of the official falling on the ground after objects were being thrown at him.
