MERCER, Pa. - Mercer Borough police said charges are likely, pending an investigation, against a football booster accused of giving high school football players a liquid substance meant to enhance oxygen use before a game earlier this month.

Investigators believe more than a dozen athletes took the substance, which caused some players to vomit during the game, according to Chief Robert Davis. 

Police allege that Mercer Area football booster club president Mike Davis entered the boys’ locker room on Sept. 5 before the team’s away game at Reynolds High School and handed out methylene blue, a bright blue liquid.

According to a letter sent to parents by Superintendent Ronald Rowe, the substance was “administered with an eyedropper into water bottles.”

Davis told 21 News that methylene blue can affect how blood carries oxygen, and said, “It puts oxygenate in your blood to give you a little bit more energy or a little pep.”

He said about a dozen to 15 players drank the liquid.

He added that while it is not a controlled substance, it can cause health risks, including dizziness, nausea, vomiting and interactions with antidepressants and other medications, based on medical research.

Superintendent Rowe said in a statement that the booster “has been banned from all District property, including public extracurricular events,” and that “a review of procedure regarding building and locker room access and supervision has been done and recommendations have been implemented.”

He added that all parents have been notified.

Chief Davis said he intends to pursue charges such as reckless endangerment or disorderly conduct in the coming days, pending the results of the investigation, which is still ongoing.

He also said he is in the process of speaking with all parents of the football players involved.

The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) has not yet responded to questions at this time about whether disciplinary action could be taken against the team.