Feb 25, 2008 8:28 am US/Eastern
Major Melee, Gunfire At Popular Boston Nightclub
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
A night at the club quickly turns into a dangerous situation as a
massive fight breaks out and bullets are randomly shot into the crowd.
Police say the incident began shortly before 2 a.m. when several small groups started to exchange words at the Aria nightclub on Tremont Street in Boston, which was hosting camera crews from the infamous video series "Girls Gone Wild."
By the time police arrived on the scene, the confrontation elevated to a fight involving 20-35 people.
According to police, club-goers were swinging champagne bottles at people's heads and midsections.
As police tried relentlessly to break up the brawl, they heard what sounded like gunshots. When officers looked to see who had the gun, they allegedly saw Damion Jamaal-Anthony Haley, 24, of Milton holding a gun and randomly firing shots into the crowd.
After a violent struggle, police were able to detain Haley and take away his firearm. But before they knew it, they were being attacked by a massive crowd inside the club.
Police officers from around the city rushed to the club and were eventually able to control the crowd.
Four victims were injured during the melee, police said. Two people were shot in the elbow, and a third victim suffered a laceration to the head after he was struck with a champagne bottle. A state trooper suffered a broken arm while trying to detain Haley and break up the other fights.
Those who escaped the club during the melee left their belongings behind and returned on Sunday to get them, but the club's door was locked and no one answered the phone. It is not clear whether Aria will open Sunday night so people can get their things.
Meanwhile, Boston police are beginning the process of having the club's liquor and entertainment licenses revoked.
Haley faces several charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm and assault and battery. According to police, Haley was also charged with six outstanding default warrants.
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