Sha’Carri Richardson Charged With Assault After Airport Incident

Sha’Carri Richardson is facing misdemeanor assault charges after an airport altercation with fellow Olympian and boyfriend Christian Coleman.

Sha’Carri Richardson at 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Track & Field Trials — Source: Patrick Smith / Patrick Smith/Getty Images

The 100-meter world champion and Olympic relay gold medalist was arrested on July 27 at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport after video showed her shoving Coleman multiple times and throwing headphones at him.

Prosecutors in Seattle have charged Richardson with fourth-degree assault — domestic violence, despite earlier reports suggesting the case had been cleared. She entered a not guilty plea during her arraignment on July 28.

Richardson’s attorneys are currently negotiating with the city prosecutor for a possible resolution. She is scheduled to be back in court in SeaTac next week, though her lawyer could appear on her behalf.

For now, Richardson’s focus shifts from the track to the courtroom, as her legal team works to keep the case from going to trial.