HOUSTON — An individual who sent threatening messages online towards the family of Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. resides abroad and was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. He has since expressed remorse, according to a spokesperson for the Houston police department.
The threats were sent to McCullers following his unsatisfactory performance against the Cincinnati Reds on May 10, targeting his children on social media. These alarming messages prompted the Houston Astros to alert both the local police and the Major League Baseball (MLB) security team. In response, Astros owner Jim Crane took the precaution of arranging round-the-clock security for McCullers, his wife Kara, and their two young daughters.
Erika Ramirez, the police department’s public information officer, confirmed that the identity of the man responsible was uncovered through an investigation. However, as formal charges have not been pressed, the police are withholding his identity and the details of his whereabouts.
In their communication with authorities, the suspect admitted to having bet on the Astros game, which contributed to his frustration. The loss, coupled with his intoxicated state, led him to vent his anger on social media. The individual conveyed his regret and requested that his apology be extended to the McCullers family.
This development was initially reported by ESPN, which highlighted that the police had successfully located the person behind the threats.