Further investigation into the altercation in the 500 block of Buchanan Avenue on Sept. 15 resulted in the discovery of a video depicting the incident. Information from the video and subsequent interviews from individuals at the scene have provided significant disagreement with original reports made to our agency and the local media.

The investigation determined that a series of physical altercations between two persons took place over a short period of time. No other persons were involved and relatively few people were present at the time of the incident. No weapons were involved in the fight. The reporting party, initially reported as the victim, was shown on video to be the aggressor of the fights and repeatedly engages the other individual showcasing a series of mutual combat. Officers have also identified and made contact with the other involved party. Based on the investigation to date, there is no evidence or indication that a hate crime or robbery occurred.

Additionally, in contrast with previous public statements by the reporting party, NPD officers were on scene within minutes of the initial report. Video shows the reporting party driving slowly past several officers at the scene with no attempt to make contact with the officers prior to the leaving the area. Officers contacted the reporting party at the hospital and interviewed him regarding the incident. Reports that NPD did not respond to the scene of the altercation or contact the reporting party in-person at the hospital are false. 

The case was presented to the Cleveland County District Attorney’s Office. After review of the evidence associated with the investigation, the incident was determined to be a matter of mutual combat and no criminal charges will be filed. The investigation will be closed pending further evidence being provided.