Two Rhode Island men, John Vieira, 59, and Justin Mitchell, 39, have been charged with assault and battery and disorderly conduct in connection with the death of 53-year-old Dale Mooney at a New England Patriots game in September. The altercation occurred during the Patriots' game against the Miami Dolphins on September 17, which ended in a 24-17 victory for the Dolphins.

According to investigators, Mooney was involved in a verbal confrontation with Mitchell, who was wearing a Dolphins jersey, and another individual named George Chiarillo. Witnesses reported that Mooney appeared to provoke Mitchell into a fight. Police reports state that Mooney approached Mitchell, indicating that he wanted to fight him. At that point, Vieira joined the altercation and punched Mooney in the head.

Following the fight, Mooney collapsed and was subsequently taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Initial autopsy results did not suggest traumatic injury but indicated a medical issue. The cause and manner of death were undetermined at the time, pending further testing. However, the final determinations delivered to the Norfolk District Attorney's Office ruled the manner of death a homicide. The cause of death was determined to be "probable cardiac dysrhythmia in a person with severe hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease during a physical altercation."

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner's preliminary indications did not point to a traumatic injury as the cause of death but identified underlying health issues. The review of available evidence, including autopsy results and video footage capturing the incident from multiple angles, could not establish a basis for criminal prosecution related to Mooney's death, according to Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey.

Vieira and Mitchell were both charged earlier this month with assault and battery and disorderly conduct. Mitchell's lawyer did not immediately respond to requests for comment, while it was unclear whether Vieira had legal representation. Vieira is scheduled to appear in court on January 19, and Mitchell is due in court on January 26.

The death of Dale Mooney deeply saddened Gillette Stadium officials, who referred to him as a lifelong Patriots fan and a 30-year season ticket holder. Mooney, a father of two, was laid to rest in a Patriots Mac Jones jersey, symbolizing his love and dedication to the team.

The investigation into Mooney's death is ongoing, and authorities continue to gather evidence and evaluate witness testimonies.