National Football League

Vick event canceled due to threats

Published Sep. 21, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Michael Vick has been back in the NFL for four seasons since the dog-fighting scandal that derailed his life and career.

Apparently, some people have not forgotten.

The Eagles quarterback was supposed to appear at an autograph signing at Buffalo Wild Wings in York, Pa., but it looks like the owner received death threats and was forced to cancel the event.

From the CBS 21 website:

Joe Bartolo told me this afternoon the signing was postponed after he claims death threats were made against him, his wife Jamie -- the owners of JJ Cards N Toys -- and their family for organizing Vick's appearance in October at a local Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant.

Those making the threats were upset the Bartolos would bring Vick to the area. Vick served 18 months in federal prison for running an illegal dogfighting ring. Bartolo told me thousands of threats were coming in from all the country. He even had to shut down the store's Facebook page.

This isn’t the first time Vick has been forced to cancel public appearances because of death threats. In March, he canceled a book signing in Atlanta (where he used to play) and Philadelphia (where he plays now).

Last October, Vick admitted to owning a dog, and got similar backlash about it. Here was his statement at the time:

"I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet. As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God's creatures with kindness and respect. Our pet is well cared for and loved as a member of our family. This is an opportunity to break the cycle. To that end, I will continue to honor my commitment to animal welfare and be an instrument of positive change."