A bonfire in Deltona escalated into a violent mob beating in DeLeon Springs, authorities said.
Bonfire gathering turns violent
What we know:
A total of 10 people, ranging in ages from 16 to 20, are facing charges in connection to the brawl.
According to Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood, the incident began in Deltona, during an unauthorized bonfire gathering. At the initial location, several people were jumping up and down on the back of a pickup truck. The sheriff said the driver of the truck drove off as a prank, causing several of the partygoers to fall off. The event then relocated to a property in DeLeon Springs where the fight occurred.
Witness videos show a person on the ground being kicked and stomped. At least four people were injured, including one with a head wound requiring staples.
Four arrests have been made, with six additional warrants outstanding.
What we don’t know:
It is still unclear what led to the initial act of aggression beyond the truck prank. While four people have been arrested and warrants are out on six other people, it is unclear if additional people will be charged.
What they’re saying:
Sheriff MC described the attack as a “wolfpack” mentality mob beating.
“These victims were beat down in what I would describe as a mob mentality,” he said. “Like a wolfpack just beating down somebody for pulling a practical joke that they didn’t like.”
The sheriff said the driver of the pickup truck and a few others were injured. He detailed their injuries during a news conference on Wednesday.
“I have somebody who was hit with brass knuckles in the back of their head that ended up with four staples in their head,” The sheriff said. “Somebody has a dislocated shoulder, somebody else has a concussion.”
Who has been arrested?:
DH, 20, CS, 20, and two minors were arrested on charges of aggravated battery and inciting a riot. Four of the 10 alleged assailants are minors.
Another suspect is accused of stealing and using an alleged victim’s credit card to purchase a meal after the incident. Credit card statements helped investigators identify a suspect who is being charged with theft in addition to fight-related crimes.
What’s next:
Authorities are still searching for six suspects, meaning more arrests are likely. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
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source: fox35orlando
