Coach Accused Of Opening Fire At West Philadelphia Basketball Game Turns Himself In
By Walt Hunter
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A 26-year-old basketball coach surrendered with his attorney late Monday afternoon on charges he pulled a gun and fired a shot during an argument while he was leading his team at the Christy Recreation Center in a game Saturday afternoon.
Maurice Tavares declined comment on allegations that he fired the shot toward a rival coach who was trying to defuse an argument he was having with a spectator.
Lt. John Walker says the shot in the gym filled with 70 people could have caused serious injuries, but fortunately went above the grandstands hitting a window.
No one was hurt, but the Lieutenant says the gunshot put lives at risk.
Tavares' attorney says his client, a father of three with no criminal record and a permit to carry, fired the shot into the air in self defense, fearing a crowd of 15 to 20 people heading toward him.
Tavares is now awaiting arraignment on aggravated assault and other charges.
His attorney says he carried the weapon because he had been shot previously in the leg coaching another basketball game in Philadelphia.