A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper was relieved of duty during Saturday’s college football game between Texas A&M and South Carolina following an on-field incident with a South Carolina player. The trooper’s removal comes as the department’s Office of Inspector General launches a review of the encounter, which was captured on video and widely circulated on social media.
The incident occurred after South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor scored an 80-yard touchdown in the second quarter. As Harbor, accompanied by teammates, returned to the field through a tunnel, a trooper positioned himself in their path, making contact with Harbor and another player. Video footage shows the trooper then turning and gesturing toward Harbor before being intervened by a teammate. The situation raises questions about appropriate conduct by law enforcement personnel during large public events and the potential for escalation in interactions with athletes.
According to a statement released by the DPS, the trooper was sent home from the game in College Station. “Our Office of Inspector General (OIG) is also aware of the incident and will be further looking into the matter. No additional information will be released at this time,” the statement read.
The video of the encounter quickly gained traction online, prompting reactions from prominent figures, including NBA star LeBron James. The OIG inquiry will aim to determine whether the trooper’s actions violated department policy or state law. The outcome of the investigation could lead to disciplinary action against the trooper.