VERONA, Pa. — What should have been a fun Halloween night for families in Verona turned into a frightening scene for some after a fight broke out in the middle of trick-or-treating, sending one man to the hospital.
Chief Thomas Dessell with the Verona Police Department said it happened on Halloween
after a man drove down 2nd Street in the midst of a large crowd of trick-or-treaters. Investigators believe a confrontation between the driver and three other men escalated into a physical fight.
“Halloween is supposed to be a fun time for everyone, especially the children, and unfortunately, a large amount of children witnessed this event,” Dessell said. “It’s very out of the ordinary and very shocking, and I think that’s why the community is pretty upset about it.”
The incident has left neighbors disgusted, with many saying they’ve never seen anything like it in their community. Joe Gottschalk has handed out candy 2nd Street every Halloween for the past 50 years. He said he heard police sirens before seeing people running nearby.
“I heard the sirens from the cop car a couple times, I see everybody in the corner running here,” Gottschalk said. “It’s embarrassing.”
Police canvassed the neighborhood Monday, hoping to find witnesses and surveillance or cellphone video that could help investigators piece together what happened. Dessell said investigators were surprised they hadn’t received any video, given the large number of people who were outside celebrating Halloween.
Police have identified two suspects and are working to identify a third. No charges have been filed at this time.
“Everything is on the table, and once we gather all the information, witnesses, anything of pertinent value, we’re going to give it to the District Attorney’s office, and recommended charges will be brought forth,” Dessell said.
Anyone who witnessed the fight or has video of the incident is asked to contact the Verona Police Department.
Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW