1 Dead, 3 Arrested After Fight Between Wedding Parties In Society Hill
By Jericka Duncan, Mike Dougherty
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – One man suffered a heart attack and later died and three people were arrested for their alleged involvement in a wedding reception brawl at the Sheraton in the Society Hill section of Philadelphia early Sunday morning.
Police said at least two separate wedding parties got into a fight that began inside the hotel located at 1 Dock Street.
One group of guests fought with another group, who had just returned to the hotel after an off-site reception. It spilled out into the street and police were called in around 1:30 a.m.
Eyewitnesses say the fight began in the lobby. It then escalated to the point where the cops requested what's called a 3rd assist, which is an all-hands-on-deck call. The melee was caught on tape and posted to YouTube.
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Authorities say one man was charged with assaulting an officer. The other two men were released with no charges.
Police confirmed the 57-year-old man who suffered the heart attack died at Jefferson Hospital around 2:50 a.m. Sunday. The man is reportedly an uncle of the bride.
It is unclear why or who initiated the brawl, but it is clear this wedding day was ruined.
According to police, Commissioner Charles Ramsey has watched the video and he will consult the district attorney about filing charges against more of the brawlers.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Sheraton said they are cooperating with authorities and offered their condolences to the family for their loss.