Ryan Pellum, a former University of Oregon football player, has been arrested following allegations of a violent assault in his hometown of Long Beach, California. Pellum, who also goes by his legal name, Ryan Tristan Chance Taylor, was taken into custody in Springfield, Oregon, on a nationwide extradition warrant related to the incident, multiple outlets report.
Alleged Assault on Christmas Day
According to court documents obtained by KEZI 9 and The Eugene Register-Guard, Pellum, 19, is accused of assaulting an individual on Christmas Day. The alleged incident involved Pellum “pistol-whipping” the victim, causing head injuries severe enough to require stitches. Authorities say Pellum also fired two shots in an unspecified direction following the assault.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Eugene police apprehended Pellum at an apartment in Springfield, Oregon, on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Upon his arrest, Pellum reportedly admitted to knowing about the warrant from California but provided no further comment, according to court records. He was transported to the Lane County Jail shortly after his arrest.
Pellum waived his right to fight extradition during a court hearing on Thursday, Jan. 9, and an unidentified individual posted bail for an undisclosed amount. Authorities in California have until Jan. 23 to arrange Pellum’s transfer back to Long Beach to face charges.
Background and College Football Career
Pellum was a highly-touted four-star recruit in the 2024 recruiting class. He initially committed to the USC Trojans before flipping his commitment to the University of Oregon. He played four games during his freshman season with the Ducks.
Just two days before his arrest, Pellum entered the NCAA transfer portal, signaling his intention to leave the University of Oregon football program. The move came after a season where he struggled to find consistent playing time.
University Response
Following his arrest, a spokesperson for the University of Oregon confirmed that Pellum is no longer enrolled at the school and is no longer a member of the Ducks football program.
What’s Next?
The case has sparked significant interest, given Pellum’s once-promising football career. If convicted, Pellum could face serious legal consequences, potentially jeopardizing any future aspirations in athletics. California authorities are expected to expedite his transfer to Long Beach, where he will appear in court to address the charges.
This development adds another layer of complexity to what was already shaping up to be a pivotal period in Pellum’s young career.