Police in Tennessee looking into a dispute involving Reacher actor Alan Ritchson and a neighbor have confirmed he will not face criminal charges in connection with the incident.
Video of the confrontation circulated earlier this week after TMZ published footage that appears to show a man reported to be Ritchson striking another man several times on a residential street, before riding away on a green motorcycle.
The neighbor, Ronnie Taylor, later spoke about what happened and alleged he first approached Ritchson on Saturday (March 21) to raise concerns about riding safely in the area.
“Then, on Sunday, when I was cleaning by bike outside my house, he rode past once, twice, and on the second time I walked out in front of him, and I said, ‘You got to stop, someone’s going to get hurt’,” Taylor said.
Taylor acknowledged that he “pushed” Ritchson, and then claimed he was struck from behind.
As additional details emerged, Ritchson appeared to share bodycam footage that showed a longer sequence of events.
In that video, the actor is seen riding into the neighborhood when a man steps into his path, prompting Ritchson to brake hard and fall from the motorcycle.
“Are you f***ing kidding me, bro?,” Ritchson said.
The footage then appears to show Ritchson pushing the man down and trying to leave. When the neighbor blocks the bike again, the actor seems to lose control, after which the man is knocked to the ground and is struck multiple times.
Brentwood, Tennessee police previously said there was an “active investigation” into the altercation. Now, Police Captain Steven Pepin has said investigators concluded Ritchson acted in self-defense.
In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Pepin said: “After reviewing available evidence, including video footage and witness statements, authorities determined that no criminal charges will be pursued. Mr. Ritchson’s actions were found to be in self-defense.”
Police have since ended the investigation, confirming no charges will be filed against Ritchson.
Pepin also said Ritchson chose not to pursue any charges himself, despite the neighbor admitting he initiated contact.
“Although a potential reckless endangerment charge was considered, Mr. Ritchson declined to pursue charges. With the agreement of the District Attorney’s Office, the case is now closed, and no further action will be taken,” Pepin said.