Rutgers QB Nelson Arrested In Minnesota, Could Face Felony Assault Charges
MANKATO, Minn. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A former Minnesota State linebacker was in critical condition after an alleged assault involving former Minnesota Gophers quarterback Philip Nelson, who recently transferred to Rutgers.
Isaac Dallas Kolstad, 24, of Mankato, was in critical condition Monday at the Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, according to hospital spokesman Kevin Burns.
A police statement said officers came across Kolstad while patrolling the city's downtown entertainment district around 2 a.m. Sunday. The 20-year-old Nelson was arrested at the scene and taken to the Blue Earth County jail, the statement said.
Police are requesting felony charges of third-degree assault, KTOE-AM reported.
Nelson left the Gophers in January to transfer to Rutgers, which is moving into the Big Ten conference next season. He played in 11 games last season, but said Rutgers offered a more pass-friendly offense. He completed 50.5 percent of his passes for 1,306 yards with nine touchdowns and six interceptions last season. He also rushed for 364 yards and six touchdowns while sharing quarterback duties with Mitch Leidner.
"We are in the process of gathering information on the situation and reserve comment until the legal process is complete," Rutgers athletics spokesman Jason Baum said in a statement Sunday.
A candlelight vigil for Kolstad was held at Minnesota State University in Mankato on Sunday night, according to The Free Press of Mankato.
"We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support we have received during this difficult time," Kolstad's family said in a statement. "Isaac is a very strong and determined young man, who is dearly loved by his family and friends. We would respectfully ask for your continued prayers."
Former football player Sam Thompson said Kolstad has a 3-year-old daughter, and that his wife is pregnant. Kolstad recently started working at Fastenal, a local company, he said.
Fellow MSU player Barry Ballinger described Kolstad as having a spirit of perseverance.
"I know he's a strong guy. I know he's going to fight through this," said Ballinger, a senior defensive tackle.
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