Dozens Brawl At Flag Football Tournament In Gloucester Twp. Park: Cops

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — Criminal charges are pending after dozens of people brawled at a flag football tournament Saturday in Gloucester Township, police said.

About 40 people were shoving each other and arguing just after 1 p.m. by the football field at Gloucester Township Community Park on Hickstown Road. A larger crowd was congregating around them.

All involved parties were at the park for an unsanctioned flag football tournament that had been privately advertised on social media, police said.

The altercation started when coaches from a flag football team were disgruntled with a tournament organizer and demanded a refund of their entry fees, police said.

Criminal charges and local ordinance violations are pending for all involved. Police have not disclosed the identities of anyone in the altercation as of Monday morning.

Police did not report any injuries.

Officers separated the parties and dispersed the crowd. Police remained there for about an hour to maintain the peace and safety of others at the park.

The event wasn't authorized by the Gloucester Township Recreation Department, which requires a permit to use the athletic fields during organized events, police said.

"The safety of residents and guests is paramount to Gloucester Township, who also acknowledges the importance of sports and outdoor activities within our community," said the Gloucester Township Police Department. "With this in mind athletes should use caution and make sure events advertised on social media are legitimate with proper permits, ensuring the safety and security of all involved."