A Phoenix WNBA sport turned chaotic on Monday night time when an 18-year-old fan was arrested for throwing a intercourse toy into the group — the most recent in a disturbing development of comparable incidents this season.

According to reports, Kaden Lopez was taken into custody throughout the Phoenix Mercury’s August 5 matchup in opposition to the Connecticut Sun at PHX Arena after allegedly throwing a inexperienced intercourse toy that struck a person and his 9-year-old niece within the stands. Though the article by no means reached the courtroom, the act shortly drew consideration from close by spectators and safety.

Lopez reportedly instructed authorities that the stunt was a part of a “stupid prank that was trending on social media.” He now faces fees together with disorderly conduct, assault, and public show of specific sexual materials. A courtroom submitting additionally revealed {that a} volunteer tackled Lopez as he tried to flee the scene, stopping additional disruption.

The incident provides to a troubling collection of comparable episodes which have plagued the WNBA in current weeks. This marks at the very least the fifth reported case of intercourse toys being thrown at or close to the courtroom, with earlier incidents occurring in Atlanta (July 29), Chicago (August 1), Los Angeles (earlier on August 5) — the place Mercury participant Sophie Cunningham was almost hit — and New York.

Both the WNBA and area officers have issued stern warnings in response, reiterating a zero-tolerance coverage for such habits. Individuals caught throwing objects face rapid ejection, a minimal one-year ban, and potential legal fees. In an effort to curb additional disruptions, venues have additionally launched new safety protocols, together with stricter no-bag insurance policies.

Fans and gamers alike have voiced frustration over the escalating habits, urging respect for the league and its athletes.