A favorite gathering spot along a South Carolina river transformed into a scene of pandemonium when a large-scale brawl erupted, captivating onlookers with its intensity. The chaotic melee, captured in astonishing videos, unfolded as numerous individuals engaged in physical altercations, with punches being thrown and combatants tussling in the water.
The incident took place on June 6 at the 601 Sand Bar, nestled along the Congaree River in Calhoun County. Footage from the scene reveals multiple skirmishes occurring simultaneously, drawing in large crowds who were both spectators and documentarians, eager to capture the tumult on their phones.
One video depicts a group of people exchanging punches while some attempt to intervene and separate the combatants. Another clip shows individuals grappling and trading blows in shallow water, all amidst the backdrop of shouting and recording by bystanders.
This violent outbreak has resulted in the arrest of six individuals and has prompted an ongoing investigation by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office as they work to piece together the events leading up to the disorderly altercation.
Visual evidence from the scene illustrates the intense exchanges of punches during the fracas at the 601 Sand Bar. (Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office)
Investigators previously told WIS-TV that more than 20 people were involved in the fight and that at least three people suffered injuries ranging from swollen eyes to head injuries.
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“The injuries were severe,” Calhoun County Sheriff Thomas Summers told the outlet.
Authorities have not publicly identified what sparked the violence, but Summers said alcohol was a factor and that deputies identified numerous cases of underage drinking.
A crowd gathers around a fight at South Carolina’s 601 Sand Bar. (Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office)
“To see that many people swinging, fighting, it could have been really, really bad and I’m sure there are injuries that we haven’t heard about. That’s just the nature of that type of beast,” Summers told WIS.
“The water and drinking don’t mix,” he added. “It could be a family setting. Obviously, this would not be a good place to take your children if you wanted to because of things like this.”
The fight occurred during the annual Sparkleberry Duck Run, an event that draws boaters and outdoor enthusiasts to the Congaree River each year, according to WIS.
According to the sheriff’s office, six people have been arrested in connection with the brawl. Authorities identified the suspects as Brendan Bonds, Hunter Dalzell, Lucas Scott, Edward Scott, Austin Mizzell and Taylor Knudson. The suspects face various assault and breach-of-peace charges stemming from the incident.
The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains active and additional arrests are expected as detectives continue reviewing video and information submitted by the public.
News Media has reached out to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office for additional comment.
In announcing the arrests, Summers said authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and encouraged anyone with information to contact investigators.
“This kind of behavior will not be tolerated,” the sheriff said.
