Police probe alleged Deeside ice hockey assault

North Wales Police have confirmed they are investigating an alleged assault that occurred during an ice hockey match at Deeside Ice Arena.

The incident, which involved players from the Deeside Dragons and Blackburn Hawks, reportedly took place during a game break on Sunday, January 7.

According to a statement posted on social media by Blackburn Hawks, the alleged assault occurred in the tunnel leading to the dressing rooms at the end of the second segment of the game.

The Hawks stated that their player, Devids Jurineoks, was the victim of the assault and received first aid attention from the team’s physio.

In their statement, which has since been deleted from social media, Blackburn Hawks declared that the player alleged to have carried out the assault will be barred from entering ice hockey events at the Blackburn arena.

Deeside Dragons have publicly acknowledged the incident on their Facebook page, stating: “The Deeside Dragons Ice Hockey Club is currently investigating an incident that occurred on 7th January 2024, involving a member of our team and a player from the Blackburn Hawks. Our aim is to fully understand the event and await assistance from the EIH (England Ice Hockey).”

The Dragons have chosen to refrain from further comment until the investigation is complete.

North Wales Police confirmed that it has received a complaint regarding the incident and the ‘matter is currently being investigated.’

The Hawks suffered a 6-3 defeat against the Dragons in a match; they are due to face off again at Blackburn Arena on Saturday in an M56 cup clash.