Authorities in Tennessee are currently investigating Reacher star Alan Ritchson following a physical altercation with a neighbor over the weekend.
The incident, which allegedly stemmed from a dispute over dirt bikes, was caught on camera and has sparked a massive debate across social media. Here is everything we know so far about the ongoing investigation.
How the Feud Started
According to the neighbor, Ronnie Taylor, the confrontation began on Saturday, March 21. Taylor claims that Alan Ritchson drove his dirt bike at an “excessive speed” through their Tennessee neighborhood.
After Ritchson allegedly revved his bike engine, Taylor admits to flipping the actor off. Ritchson reportedly returned the gesture, setting the stage for a much larger confrontation the following day.
The Incident Caught on Camera
The situation escalated on Sunday around midday. Taylor claims Ritchson returned to the area, this time accompanied by his two children on their own motorbikes. When Taylor confronted the actor, asking him to “f****** stop this, please,” the verbal argument allegedly turned physical.
Footage obtained and released by TMZ, which was recorded from another neighbor’s window, appears to show the altercation. In the video, Ritchson seemingly hits a man, knocking him to the ground. Taylor alleges that the actor punched him in the face and kicked him while he was down. Ritchson then reportedly fell off his own bike before getting back up and attempting to run Taylor off.
The Police Investigation
Following the incident, Taylor reported the alleged assault to the police. He stated that the altercation left him with swelling and bruises, though he did not seek treatment at a hospital.
Law enforcement sources confirmed to TMZ that an active investigation into the incident is ongoing. As of right now, no arrests have been made.
The Internet Reacts
The viral footage immediately divided social media. Many users condemned the actor’s alleged actions, especially since the incident occurred in front of children.
- “Being a public figure doesn’t excuse this. If the allegations are accurate, that’s unacceptable behaviour especially over something so minor and in front of kids,” one user wrote on X.
- “This is a clear case of assault, hitting a man repeatedly while he is already on the ground and posing no threat,” another added.
However, a vocal portion of the internet is defending Ritchson, urging the public to wait for more context before jumping to conclusions. Fans noted that the video looks like a scene pulled straight out of his hit Prime Video action series, and they are asking to hear both sides of the story before passing judgment.
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