Man in court after Aberdeen footballer Jack MacKenzie hit by seat 'thrown from stand'
Unused substitute Jack MacKenzie suffered a serious facial injury, with Aberdeen FC vowing to "take the strongest possible action" against the perpetrator.
Wednesday 21 May 2025 15:31, UK
A man has appeared in court charged with culpable and reckless conduct after a football player was hit by a seat thrown towards the pitch.
Aberdeen defender Jack MacKenzie suffered a serious facial injury after being struck by part of a chair following his club's away defeat to Dundee United at Tannadice Park on Saturday.
Police Scotland said the object appeared to have been hurled from the upper deck of the Fair Play stand, which housed Aberdeen fans.
Unused substitute MacKenzie was treated on the pitch before being taken off in a wheelchair, with Aberdeen FC vowing to "take the strongest possible action" against the perpetrator.
Suspect David Gowans, 31, was arrested and charged in connection with the incident.
Gowans appeared before Dundee Sheriff Court on Wednesday, where made no plea to the single charge of culpable and reckless conduct.
Gowans, of Aberdeen, was granted bail ahead of his next court appearance.
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The incident occurred as fans invaded the pitch following Dundee United's 2-1 win - which secured them fourth spot in the Scottish Premiership and a place in Europe.
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Superintendent Ray Birnie said: "Any type of disorder has a huge impact on the public and the overwhelming majority of football supporters who simply want to enjoy these occasions safely.
"This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and such acts which endanger people will be fully investigated."