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CINCINNATI – Disturbing video footage of a violent brawl that occurred in downtown Cincinnati at the end of July has sparked public outrage as community members demand answers about the incident that resulted in six civilians being injured.
The brutal attack went viral online, showing multiple individuals being thrown to the ground and assaulted, shocking the nation and prompting local leaders to address the unnecessary violence that unfolded in a series of events that have captured national attention.
Saturday, July 26
A bystander captured the moment a large group turned on several individuals around 3 a.m. at the corner of Fourth and Elm streets in downtown Cincinnati’s business district. In a video obtained by digital news sources, an unidentified man can be heard shouting racial slurs while being attacked in the street, with some reports suggesting that the male victim had slapped the perpetrator before the fight broke out.
Another angle of the incident shows a woman, identified as “Holly,” trying to intervene before she too is thrown to the ground and knocked unconscious.
Shortly after the altercation ended, a single 911 call was made to report the brawl.
During a press conference on Sunday, Cincinnati Chief of Police Teresa Theetge condemned the behavior displayed in the video as “cruel and absolutely unacceptable.” She emphasized that the incident stemmed from a sudden dispute following a verbal altercation between individuals.
Sunday, July 27
As the video circulated online, government officials expressed their concerns about the actions depicted in the footage.
“I was born and raised in Cincinnati, and it’s disheartening to witness such violent behavior on the streets,” said Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. “It’s unfortunate that the state’s Democratic leaders remain silent while many of their constituents suffer due to lenient crime policies. We need to restore law and order in cities across Ohio. It’s time for a new generation of leadership.”
Monday, July 28
During a press briefing, Chief Theetge revealed that out of approximately 100 people present at the scene, only one individual called 911 to report the fight.
She expressed her disappointment at the lack of community involvement in contacting the authorities during such a violent incident. The police chief also announced that five individuals would be charged for their roles in the brawl, with four suspects already identified.
Vice President JD Vance also condemned the attack, describing it as a group of lawless individuals assaulting an innocent person.
WATCH: Cincinnati residents discuss the recent violent incident in the city
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine characterized the footage of the incident as “shocking” and expressed support for local law enforcement in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Tuesday, July 29
Authorities announced the arrest of Montianez Merriweather and DeKyra Vernon for their involvement in the violent beating. Both suspects are facing charges of felonious assault, aggravated riot, and assault.
Wednesday, July 30
Jermaine Matthews was taken into custody in connection with the attack and initially charged with aggravated riot and assault. Matthews appeared in court for a bond hearing, where a judge set his bond at $500,000.
During the same court session, detectives detailed Matthews and Merriweather’s actions during the incident, describing the attack as an “ambush” that involved chasing and assaulting victims.
The FBI confirmed its involvement in the investigation into the attack, working closely with the Cincinnati Police Department.
Thursday, July 31
Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval responded to criticism about his decision to go on a family vacation on the day news of the brawl broke. Pureval explained that the trip had been planned in advance as a celebration for his son starting kindergarten.
LISTEN: 911 call captures aftermath of violent street attack in Cincinnati
Senator Bernie Moreno criticized city leaders for their handling of the incident, calling it a “heinous situation” and vowing to request an audit of Cincinnati’s federal funding.
Footage leading up to the brawl was obtained, showing a man using racial slurs before being attacked. Bystanders attempted to intervene, according to the video.
Monday, August 3
A fifth suspect, Patrick Rosemond, was arrested and charged with felonious assault and aggravated riot. He is currently in custody awaiting extradition to Ohio.
A grand jury is set to convene for the charges filed against Kittle, Vernon, Matthews, and Merriweather.
Contributors: Peter D’Abrosca, CB Cotton, Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, and Adam Sabes
