SOUTHLAKE, Texas – Former Dallas Cowboys star Dez Bryant, a Lufkin native now residing in Southlake, was cited Sunday for assault after an argument escalated in the parking lot of a local restaurant.
According to ESPN, Bryant, 37, said the incident began when two drivers cut him off in traffic. He approached the drivers to ask them to drive more safely, but the conversation quickly turned hostile.
Bryant told sports outlet Outkick that one of the drivers suggested he might “shoot me or whatever.” He said he warned the man that if he drew a gun, he would have to use it. The driver never produced a weapon; instead, he pulled out a phone to record the exchange. Bryant then knocked the phone from the man’s hand, ESPN reported.
Police were called by the driver, and Bryant says he encouraged the call. When officers arrived, they ordered all three men to the ground and handcuffed them. No weapons were found at the scene.
After the police left, Bryant’s girlfriend and daughters arrived and recorded additional footage, which Bryant later provided to Outkick.
The Southlake Police Department issued Bryant a citation for assault by contact, which carries a $367 fine. An initial hearing is scheduled for Nov. 20.
Background on Bryant
Bryant last played in the NFL in 2020. He remains the Cowboys’ all‑time leader in touchdown receptions and ranks fourth in receptions and sixth in receiving yards for the franchise, according to ESPN.
Local response
Southlake officials have not commented on the incident beyond confirming the citation. The police department’s standard procedure for assault citations includes a fine and a court appearance, which Bryant will face later this month.
The incident underscores the challenges that high‑profile individuals can face when personal disputes turn public. Local residents are reminded that the Southlake Police Department encourages anyone involved in a confrontation to remain calm and allow officers to handle the situation.
For updates on the upcoming hearing and any further legal developments, stay tuned to local news outlets.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
