Teen Charged After Tackling Middle School Football Player in Tennessee

A teen girl, 16, has been charged with assault and disorderly conduct after she ran onto a football field and tackled a middle school player during a game in Tennessee. The incident, captured on video, went viral and drew attention to the confrontation on Tuesday night between South Middle School and Cornersville Middle School.

The game took place at Franklin County High School, South’s home field. The South team scored a touchdown, which led to penalty flags for actions beyond the play. At this moment, the teen unexpectedly came onto the field and tackled a South player. After the player stood, she pushed him to the ground again.

Coaches and other players promptly intervened to separate the girl from the player. According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, ‘A fan ran onto the field and tackled a player. The referees immediately ended the game and cleared the field. The stadium was emptied without further incident, and no one was injured.’

The 16-year-old suspect was released to her parents after being charged. She faces a permanent ban from all Franklin County School System properties. Additionally, she cannot attend Cornersville games, whether at home or away, for the next year.

The game ended in the third quarter with South Middle School awarded a 35-0 victory.