Coach for U.S. minor league soccer team faces murder charge in England

Oklahoma City Energy assistant coach Christopher Spendlove faces murder and assault charges in Liverpool after the death of an off-duty police officer, according to the Associated Press.

Spendlove, who is from Liverpool, and Andrew Taylor are both accused of attacking officer Neil Doyle early Friday. Doyle was found to have died from fatal bleeding around the brain.

Both men appeared in court on Tuesday to face the charges. Before the hearing, Oklahoma City dismissed Spendlove from his position through a statement:

Given the seriousness of the charges, we have made the decision to dismiss Chris from the organization. That said, we are deeply saddened by the news of the incident and our hearts go out to the family of the police officer who lost his life. We are also disheartened for Chris. As an assistant coach, he was always professional and conducted himself in a proper and respectful manner. Our thoughts are also with him and his family during this difficult time.

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- Molly Geary