Grant County Sheriff's Office Launches Criminal Investigation Following Fight at 2A State Tournament
A criminal investigation is underway following a fight that broke out at the 2A State Basketball Tournament game between Barton and England on March 7 at Poyen High School.
The altercation occurred as the game concluded, involving what authorities described as an extremely large crowd of student-athletes and fans from both schools.
In a press release issued by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, officials said deputies responded to the incident alongside the Arkansas State Police, Sheridan Police Department, other assisting agencies and school officials to bring the situation under control.
“At this time the Grant County Sheriff’s Office has opened a criminal investigation into the incident and will be pursuing criminal charges against parties involved,” the release stated.
The Sheriff’s Office thanked Poyen Schools for its assistance in handling the incident and also expressed appreciation to Grant County residents who did not take part in what the department described as “extremely embarrassing behavior.”
The fight adds to concerns surrounding recent incidents involving England athletic events. As previously reported, multiple fights have occurred during England athletic contests this school year across various sports, drawing attention from administrators and fans statewide.
The Grant County Sheriff’s Office said it plans to meet with the Arkansas Activities Association and Poyen Schools to discuss measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
“Going forward the Grant County Sheriff’s Office will be in talks with the Arkansas Activities Association and Poyen Schools to attempt to prevent this type of incident from occurring in our county again,” the release stated.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet released the names of any individuals who may face charges.