Drunken Newton Man Started Fight at Sparta Lanes, Cops Say

A Newton resident was charged with disorderly conduct after police said he started a fight at the Sparta Bowling Lanes that left him unconscious.

Matthew Collins, 19, of Newton was "highly intoxicated" when he arrived at the Lanes April 12 with a group of friends, Sgt. John-Paul Beebe said. Collins was generally disruptive and bothering other patrons, including a 17-year-old resident of Franklin who he slapped in the face without provocation, Beebe said.

The Franklin teen threw a punch in self-defense, knocking Collins to the floor unconscious.

The Newton man was taken to Newton Medical Center with a head injury. He was later charged with disorderly conduct.

The 17-year-old Franklin resident was not charged, Beebe said.