A witness says the players’ bench at the game was extremely close to the stands, and that may have been one factor that led to the fight. (Source: DE Sports Zone/WBOC/CNN)
MILTON, DE (WBOC/CNN) – Three arrest warrants – one for a player and two for fans – were issued after a massive brawl broke out during a Delaware high school basketball game.
Abruptly ending a playoff match, players, coaches and fans began fighting each other in the fourth quarter of Thursday night’s Cape Henlopen High School boys’ basketball game.
As seen on video captured at the scene, one fan lands a punch on 18-year-old Cape Henlopen player Randy Rickards, as Rickards’ coach pulls him away.
In another video, taken from a different angle, a police officer can be seen slamming the fan who punched Rickards to the ground.
“We are extremely concerned and disappointed in the environment at last night’s basketball game as well as the ensuing altercation,” said Cape Henlopen Superintendent Bob Fulton in a statement.
A witness says the players’ bench at the game was extremely close to the stands, and that may have been one factor that led to the fight.
Police issued arrest warrants Friday for Rickards and two fans.
Rickards turned himself in to police after learning of the warrant and is charged with disorderly conduct and third-degree assault.
Police say the two others facing arrest plan to turn themselves in soon.
It’s unclear if the fan tackled by police is facing charges at this time.
Police say they are reviewing videos of the brawl to see if more people will be charged.
State athletic officials say they are working on additional safeguards to prevent future incidents.
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