Rhode Island Man Pleads Not Guilty to Charges in Patriots Fan's Death
John Vieira denies assault and battery charges in connection with the death of Dale Mooney during a game altercation; cause of death ruled as cardiac dysrhythmia during physical altercation.
- John Vieira, one of two Rhode Island men charged in connection with the death of a fan at a New England Patriots game, pleaded not guilty to assault and battery and disorderly conduct.
- The incident occurred during a game on September 17, 2023, where it is alleged that Vieira and Justin Mitchell punched Dale Mooney, who later died.
- Mooney's cause of death was ruled as 'probable cardiac dysrhythmia in a person with severe hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease during a physical altercation.'
- The evidence, including autopsy results and multiple video angles, did not establish a basis for criminal prosecution of charges related to homicide in Mooney's death.
- Justin Mitchell, the second man involved in the incident, is set to appear in court on January 26.