updated 5:49 p.m. ET Jan. 7, 2006

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A mascot at a minor league hockey game was burned when his fake beard and jersey ignited during a botched fire-breathing stunt.

John Robinson of the Johnstown Chiefs sustained minimal face and chest burns Friday, Chiefs general manager Toby O’Brien said. Robinson was taken to Conemaugh Memorial Hospital for overnight observation and released.

“He’s a fan who is very much devoted to the city and the hockey team,” O’Brien said. “I’m sure he’ll be back on the ice.”

Robinson, who has played the role of Puckhead for several years, was entertaining fans before the start of a game against Reading.

According to witnesses, Robinson poured the flammable liquid into his mouth and tried to light it, but it didn’t work. When he tried a second time, Robinson’s fake beard and jersey caught fire. An arena employee rushed to help him pull off his jersey as Robinson tore off the beard.

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