Charges Dropped in Fan’s Death After Patriots game Altercation
updated April 15, 2025
WRENTHAM, Mass. — Misdemeanor charges against two Rhode Island men have been dropped in connection with the 2023 death of a fan following an altercation at a New England Patriots game. Justin Mitchell and John Vieira had been charged with assault and battery and disorderly conduct after allegedly punching Dale Mooney, 53, of Newmarket, New Hampshire.
“Interest of Justice” Cited in Dismissal
Norfolk District Attorney michael Morrissey filed a court document Friday stating the charges were dropped “in the interest of justice,” offering no further clarification.
Altercation Followed Dolphins-Patriots Game
The incident occurred during a game at Gillette Stadium where the Miami Dolphins defeated the New England Patriots 24-17.Mooney was transported to a local hospital after the altercation but was later pronounced dead.
Defense Claims Self-Defense
According to Peter Aspesi, attorney for John Vieira, stadium video footage showed Vieira “was only trying to help another individual defend themselves from an unprovoked assault.”
Medical Examiner Cites Cardiac Issue
The Office of the chief Medical Examiner determined Mooney’s death to be a homicide, citing “probable cardiac dysrhythmia in a person with severe hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease during a physical altercation” as the cause. Preliminary findings had not initially indicated traumatic injury but pointed to a pre-existing medical condition.
What specific pre-existing medical conditions contributed to Dale Mooney’s death, according to the Medical Examiner’s report?
Charges Dropped in Fan’s Death After Patriots game Altercation
updated April 15, 2025
WRENTHAM, Mass. — Misdemeanor charges against two rhode Island men have been dropped in connection with the 2023 death of a fan following an altercation at a New England Patriots game. Justin Mitchell and John Vieira had been charged with assault and battery and disorderly conduct after allegedly punching Dale Mooney, 53, of Newmarket, New Hampshire.
“Interest of Justice” Cited in Dismissal
Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey filed a court document Friday stating the charges were dropped “in the interest of justice,” offering no further clarification.
Altercation Followed dolphins-Patriots Game
The incident occurred during a game at Gillette Stadium where the Miami Dolphins defeated the New England Patriots 24-17. Mooney was transported to a local hospital after the altercation but was later pronounced dead.
Defence claims Self-defense
According to Peter Aspesi, attorney for John Vieira, stadium video footage showed Vieira “was only trying to help another individual defend themselves from an unprovoked assault.”
Medical Examiner Cites Cardiac Issue
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined Mooney’s death to be a homicide, citing “probable cardiac dysrhythmia in a person with severe hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease during a physical altercation” as the cause. Preliminary findings had not initially indicated traumatic injury but pointed to a pre-existing medical condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Why were the charges dropped against Mitchell and Vieira?
- A: The Norfolk District Attorney dropped the charges “in the interest of justice,” but provided no further specifics.
- Q: What was the cause of Dale mooney’s death?
- A: The Medical Examiner ruled Mooney’s death a homicide, caused by a cardiac issue (probable cardiac dysrhythmia) exacerbated by a physical altercation, and a pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
- Q: What game did the altercation occur during?
- A: The incident took place during a game between the Miami Dolphins and the New England patriots at Gillette Stadium. The Dolphins won 24-17.
- Q: Did stadium video footage support the defense’s claim?
- A: Yes, according to the attorney for John Vieira, stadium video footage suggested Vieira was acting in self-defense.
- Q: Where was the incident?
- A: Gillette stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts.
This case highlights the complexities of legal proceedings and the importance of considering all contributing factors, including pre-existing medical conditions.
