AFL: WA Police Exonerate West Coast Eagles Forward Liam Ryan Following Camera-Captured Music Festival Altercation

The AFL has wrapped up its investigation into a street fight that went viral, which involved West Coast Eagles forward Liam Ryan, and has found no evidence of wrongdoing on his part.

Earlier this month, the 28-year-old was filmed in a scuffle in front of several witnesses.

The video was recorded following a music festival in Fremantle, just a day before he was due for a media appearance to promote the upcoming AFL All-Stars match.

The AFL’s integrity unit collaborated with WA Police, and their investigation results have cleared Ryan of any blame.

“Inquiries by the AFL Integrity Unit and investigations undertaken by WA Police established that the incident unfolded after Ryan and his friends were attacked by a larger group while departing the event,” the league stated in a press release on Monday.

The 2018 premiership player was noted as a cooperative witness who inadvertently became involved in a larger confrontation.

“WA Police informed the AFL that officers were present in the vicinity when the altercation occurred, treating Ryan as a witness in a situation where his group was pursued by a larger entity, leading to one of his female companions being assaulted and sustaining facial injuries,” the AFL added.

The league further confirmed that Ryan was actively trying to “de-escalate the situation,” before ultimately being confronted, which resulted in the incident being recorded and shared on social media.

No further action will be taken against Ryan.

“WA Police have informed the AFL that they will not proceed with any action against Ryan, affirming that he was cooperative and aided police by providing statements,” stated the AFL.

Both the league and the police confirmed that Ryan, who has played 105 games, was sober and drove himself home that evening.