Justice Served: Fan Charged with Arson After Reckless Act at Soccer Match
On February 24, the excitement of the inaugural Major League Soccer season opener between Orlando City and CF Montreal turned to chaos when two flares were released into the stands at Inter&Co stadium in Orlando, Florida. The devastating consequences: a child suffered burns, and the stadium was damaged by a resulting fire.
A Senseless Act with Severe Consequences
Giovanni Isai Ramirez Reyes, the alleged perpetrator, now faces a minimum of seven years and up to 40 years in federal prison if convicted of “arson of a building that led to personal injuries.” The government’s statement reveals that Ramirez Reyes lit the flares before tossing them into the crowd, putting countless lives at risk.
A Collaborative Effort to Ensure Accountability
Since the incident, Orlando City SC has worked tirelessly with local and federal law enforcement to identify and bring to justice those responsible for violating Inter&Co Stadium policies. The club’s security team, along with local and federal agencies, played a crucial role in making the arrest possible.
A Strong Stance on Safety
Orlando City SC emphasizes that the safety and security of fans, players, and staff is their top priority. The club will not tolerate any actions that compromise this assurance. In addition to Ramirez Reyes’ arrest, other individuals who enabled this offense have been banned from the venue.
The Road Ahead
Ramirez Reyes, an Orlando resident, was arrested on October 15 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. His hearing is set for November 12 at the Orlando Federal Courthouse, with a trial scheduled for December 2. As the legal process unfolds, one thing is clear: justice will be served, and those responsible will be held accountable for their reckless actions.
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