Police launch investigation into hit by Bruins’ Chara
Posted March 10, 2011 9:14 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
MONTREAL (NEWS1130) – Montreal police have confirmed they’ve opened a criminal investigation into the hit by Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara that sent Montreal Canadiens forward Max Pacioretty to hospital with a fractured neck.
The probe comes after a request was made by Quebec’s director of criminal and penal prosecutions. Yesterday, the same office downplayed any talk of a criminal investigation, but changed its mind when the NHL announced no sanctions would be taken against Chara.
Chara, who said he had no intent to hurt Pacioretty, was given a major penalty for interference and a game misconduct on the play.
Pacioretty, a left-winger from Connecticut, has established himself this season as a regular top-line player. The latest statement from the team said he’s still in hospital, undergoing observation, and suffering from a severe concussion and a neck fracture.
Minister of State of Sport Gary Lunn told Sportsnet Radio FAN today this is going to keep happening unless something is done. “When you see the intentional headshots, hits from behind, intentional hits that are unacceptable, there needs to be pretty severe consequences to deter people from making those kind of shots.”
Lunn adds the government is now consulting with sports organizations on the matter. “Nobody wants to step on the ice and think they’re going to come off with a fractured neck or a serious injury of concussion for that matter.”
“It’s not just this one hit,” he adds. “We see the likes [of] Sidney Crosby out; it’s been in the news, we’re seeing more and more of it. I don’t know if it is more prevalent now or if it’s just getting more attention,” he said.
Air Canada is wading into the debate as well. A letter written to the NHL said the airline will withdraw its sponsorship unless the league moves to impose sanctions to reduce potential serious injuries.
