Accused MCG brawler apologises to parents of one-punch victim Patrick Cronin
One of three men accused of sparking a wild fight at the Melbourne Cricket Ground has apologised to the parents of Patrick Cronin, who he knew from football.
Witnesses filmed the violent incident which played out just minutes after the final siren during the 2019 season opener between Carlton and Richmond.
Police initially only fined 19-year-old Eltham man Sam Bevan-Shannon $322 for riotous behaviour.
A 19-year-old was initially issued an infringement notice but has now been charged by police. 9news
But today Mr Bevan-Shannon and two other men, aged 19 and 21, were charged with affray.
Matt Cronin, an anti-violence campaigner and father of one-punch victim Patrick, revealed his son used to play football with Mr Bevan-Shannon.
The accused teenager was also awarded the “Patrick Cronin Medal” which is given to those who have played more than 100 games.
Patrick Cronin died in 201 after being punched in the head. Supplied
Patrick died after a punch to the head outside a pub in 2016.
Mr Cronin told 9News the video of the fight last Thursday made him “sick to his stomach”.
“Everyone’s got that weapon. Effectively, they carry that weapon with them, a fist. And if you use it wrong, it can end in disaster,” he said.
Mr Cronin said Mr Bevan-Shannon has since reached out via message to apologise.
“I’ll give him some credit for that.”
Patrick Cronin's father, Matt, described last Thursday's incident as "sickening." Nine
All three men accused of last week’s fight have been bailed on the condition they do not attend AFL matches. They will appear in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 4.
Superintendent David Clayton said the message to the community was very clear – police will not tolerate any behaviour that compromises the safety of others.
“There will be a highly visible presence at sporting matches each weekend in public, membership and corporate areas,” Supt Clayton said.
“Tens of thousands of sporting fans attend matches every week. The vast majority support their team and enjoy the atmosphere safely and responsibly.
“Victoria Police treats poor behaviour at sports matches very seriously, and on occasion there are a few individuals who choose to do the wrong thing.
Images emerged of a violent brawl after the final siren of a round one clash between Richmond and Carlton. 9news
“People will be held accountable for their actions. Anyone found to be drunk, assaulting someone or engaging in an affray at sporting matches can expect to be arrested by police and put before the court.”
About 80,000 people are expected to pack the stands of the MCG for tomorrow night’s Richmond-Collingwood clash.
But despite last week’s incident, police and security numbers will not be increased for the blockbuster match.
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