32 arrested or cited after 'disruption' at Romare Bearden Park on July 4 - Thursday, July 6

More than 30 people were arrested or cited after a huge brawl broke out at a Fourth of July celebration at Romare Bearden Park in Uptown, police announced Wednesday. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings confirmed that of the 32 people who were cited or arrested, 17 were minors. The parents or guardians of 15 arrested minors were cited for contributing to the delinquency of a minor, CMPD said. The suspects are facing numerous charges, including disorderly conduct, carrying a concealed weapon, resisting a public officer, assault on a government official, and possession of a firearm on city property. Jennings said it started when a group of teenagers lit illegal fireworks and started fights. He said some of the suspects were running through the crowd wearing masks, causing panic in the park. Jenning condemned their actions, saying that's "not who Charlotte is," and credited officers and staff for keeping things under control.READ MORE: https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/local/firearms-seized-people-arrested-after-uptown-fourth-of-july-celebrations-charlotte-north-carolina/275-699dce5b-b9ee-4a89-9bf3-aadbbf122145