Photo sparks new questions in McKenna case.

Police and social media users are paying attention to a photo linked to the criminal case involving hockey star Gavin McKenna. The picture started spreading online late this week. Many posts claim the man in the photo is Josh Coakley, a Penn State student.

The photo shows Coakley smiling inside Mt. Nittany Medical Center. Some social media posts claim he took pictures after receiving treatment for a jaw injury. These claims are not confirmed, but they have sparked new debates among fans following the case.

State College Police charged McKenna earlier this week after a fight outside a local bar. McKenna is a forward for Penn State men’s hockey and is projected as a possible No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Police say the incident happened on January 31, 2026, outside Doggie’s Pub and required officers to step in.

In a recent update, prosecutors in Centre County have withdrawn the felony aggravated assault charge against McKenna following further review of video evidence, determining that he did not act with intent to cause serious bodily harm or recklessly with extreme indifference to human life. McKenna remains charged with misdemeanor simple assault, as well as summary offenses of harassment and disorderly conduct.

Police set McKenna’s bail at $20,000. A judge scheduled a preliminary hearing for February 11. McKenna has pleaded not guilty and plans to fight the charges.

Online Photo Starts Debate On Gavin McKenna’s Issue

Gavin McKenna (Image Credits: Imagn)

The photo of the alleged victim has created a big debate online. Some McKenna supporters say the man in the photo does not look seriously injured. Others say the photo does not prove anything about what happened.

Police reports describe the fight as violent. Investigators say McKenna punched a 21-year-old man twice and broke his jaw. Doctors later performed surgery and wired the jaw shut for about two weeks, according to officials.

Some social media posts tell a different story. They claim the injured man insulted McKenna’s mother before the fight began. Witness reports say McKenna reacted after the argument became heated. Police have not confirmed these claims and are focusing on the injuries and events after the fight. Prosecutors plan to present evidence during the upcoming hearing.

The case has also brought attention to Penn State athletics. McKenna is one of college hockey’s top young players. His arrest has raised concerns about his playing future and draft chances, though it remains unclear if he will face punishment from his team or the NCAA. Penn State athletics has issued a statement acknowledging awareness of the charges but declining further comment. Legal experts believe McKenna’s lawyers may argue self-defense. Both sides are reviewing witness statements and video footage. A plea deal could still happen before a trial.

For now, the case is moving forward with the remaining charges. The photo has created strong reactions but few clear answers. Fans are waiting for more facts as the court prepares for the next step.