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The Fernandina Beach Police Department has announced a warrant for Daniel Byers, who is accused of hitting another player with a helmet during a Halloween football match.
FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — On Tuesday, the Fernandina Beach Police shared that an arrest warrant has been issued for an 18-year-old Bell High School football player. He faces accusations of “aggressively pushing” and striking a fellow player from Fernandina Beach High School on the head with a helmet during a game on Halloween.
This warrant follows an incident that took place on Halloween night, involving a game between Fernandina Beach High School and Bell High School, as detailed by the police.
Authorities report that during the game, Daniel Byers forcefully pushed a 15-year-old player from Fernandina Beach High School, removed his helmet, and then struck him on the head with it.
“Referees and coaches acted swiftly to intervene, yet several altercations erupted on and off the field,” stated the police department in a press release. “Two officers from the Fernandina Beach Police Department, who were present at the game, managed to restore order and separate those involved. To ensure safety, the Bell High School bus and team members were escorted off Amelia Island by the Fernandina Beach Police Department.”
At this time, it is unknown what charges Byers is facing.
The Gilchrist County School District, which is the school district Bell High School is in, released the following statement regarding the incident:
“Gilchrist County Schools is aware of an incident that occurred during the recent football game between Bell High School and Fernandina Beach High School, in which a Bell High School student struck a Fernandina Beach High School student with a helmet.
We want to be clear that Gilchrist County Schools does not condone any form of aggressive or unsportsmanlike behavior. This incident does not reflect the values or expectations we hold for our students, athletes, or community.
The situation is currently under review in accordance with district policies and athletic guidelines. Because this matter involves students, we are limited in the details we can share. Appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings of our review.
We remain committed to promoting respect, sportsmanship, and integrity—both on and off the field—for all Gilchrist County Schools students and teams.”