Cardinals QB Kyler Murray allegedly struck by fan, sparking police investigation

Las Vegas, Nevada - Police in Las Vegas are investigating allegations that a fan struck Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray in the aftermath of Arizona's 29-23 overtime victory over the Raiders on Sunday.

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray throws the ball against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 18, 2022.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray throws the ball against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 18, 2022.  © REUTERS

Video showed that Murray was giving high-fives to fans in the front row of Allegiant Stadium when a man appeared to reach down and strike Murray in the face with an open hand.

Murray was not injured but appeared shocked by the act on video.

A Las Vegas police spokesperson confirmed that a battery complaint was filed Sunday. Murray's name was not explicitly mentioned by the spokesperson, who said the allegation was that "a spectator at the stadium struck a professional football player."

Police have not yet identified a suspect.

Arizona head coach Kliff Kingsbury said he has not seen the video but was made aware of the incident on Monday.

"I was just told about it," Kingsbury said. "But I think that guy's a lowlife, whoever did it, and I hope they arrest him, he gets fired and can never go to another game."

The Cardinals trailed 23-7 at halftime but stormed back to force overtime, thanks in large part to Murray tallying a passing and a rushing touchdown, along with two two-point conversions to force overtime.

Arizona won the game when Byron Murphy Jr. returned a Hunter Renfrow fumble 59 yards for a touchdown in the extra session.

Cover photo: REUTERS

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