SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - Let's get this off the bat: Running on the field during a sporting event is dangerous and comes with some serious risks.
A prompt takedown of a fan during Friday night's San Diego Padres game reminded us why.
The fan took to the outfield during the eighth inning of the Padres' game against the St. Louis Cardinals Friday.
Video showed the fan run toward a visibly unenthusiastic Manuel Margot, before jutting off. Moments later, the fan is tripped up and tackled by four security guards.
It's a sight every sports fan has likely seen in person, but the move is not only dangerous for the person running the field, but also the players and officials in the game.
Under current state law, running or throwing objects onto the field of a sporting event is punishable by an infraction with a $250 fine. Fans are routinely cited and booted from the game as well.
10News has reached out to San Diego Police whether they have any other methods to address fans running the field, but have yet to hear back.
California lawmakers recently debated harsher laws for charging the field.
Senate Bill 689, which has since died in the state Senate, would have made the act punishable by an infraction with up to a $1,000 fine, or a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 10 days in jail and a $2,500 fine for the first offense. Subsequent offenses would have included up to 60 days in jail and an up to $5,000 fine.
The bill would have also extended a current state law to players and referees of one year in prison and a $2,000 fine for attacking them. Despite the bill's unsuccessful run, lawmakers and teams were vocally supportive of the actions. It's likely potential legislation in the future could get a second round of support.
Regardless of how fans view the risks, the act is regarded by teams, fans, and officials all the same: It's a bad idea. Don't be "that fan."
