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Celtics' Jabari Bird Faces Domestic Abuse, Kidnapping Charges

In an earlier statement, Celtics say they are aware of the incident and are gathering information

Boston Celtics guard Jabari Bird was involved in a domestic incident Friday night and now faces several charges, including strangulation and kidnapping, according to a statement from Boston police.

Fans reacted to the Celtics player's arrest and word that he now faces several criminal charges.

"That's crazy," Celtics fan Veronica Harry said. "it's a bad message to be sending to your fans."

Other fans agreed.

"It's just a shame," Jim Barry said. "You make it all the way to the NBA and then just throw it all away with both hands. I don't get it."

Another fan said the incident could affect the way fans see the team as a whole. 

"Especially if you're a big fan of this player in particular, it'll probably turn you off to the team a little bit," Ian Wallace said.

Police said the Celtics player is currently under police guard at a local hospital. The alleged victim involved was also taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries.

"Complaints will be sought against the suspect for Assault & Battery 209A, Strangulation and Kidnapping," according to a police statement.

No further details were available. 

In an earlier statement, Celtics say they are aware of the incident and are gathering information. They offered no further comment or details as of this morning.

The Boston Celtics drafted Bird 56th in 2017 in the NBA draft. The two-year deal was reportedly for $3 million, USA Today reported at the time. Bird was reported to become a restricted free agent in 2020.

Bird, 24, is listed as 6 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs about 200 lbs., according to NBA stats. He played for the University of California, Berkeley's California Golden Bears before joining the Celtics.

NBC10 reached out to Bird's agent but hasn't yet heard back.

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