Pole vaulter arrested in runner’s beating

By Staff     Nov 7, 2006

A Kansas University pole vaulter has been arrested for aggravated battery in connection with a beating last week that sent one of his teammates to the hospital.

John K. McDonald, 19, a sophomore from Hays, is due in court for a first appearance Nov. 17. He was booked into jail Friday and later released on bond in connection with the beating of KU middle-distance and cross-country runner Tyler Kelly, who told police he was attacked and beaten by a group of men about 3:15 a.m. Oct. 28 outside his home in the 4700 block of Ranch Court.

KU associate athletics director Jim Marchiony said Monday afternoon that McDonald had been suspended from the team.

Kelly’s mother said the beating happened after her son had been out with other KU cross-country runners celebrating their performance in the Big 12 championships. He suffered injuries that included a concussion and a broken cheekbone, his parents said.

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