West Chester police search for 4 suspects in violent brawl on West Gay Street
A late-night fight in West Chester sent two siblings to the trauma center, and now five male suspects face aggravated assault charges.
Police released video showing part of the August 24 brawl on West Gay Street. Investigators say the suspects repeatedly punched and kicked the victims in the face until bystanders intervened. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
"I abhor violence," said West Chester Police Chief Joshua Lee. "It's terrible in anybody's community, but especially ours. We don't like to see it, and it's disturbing to watch that level of violence in the video."
One suspect, Noah Norman, 27, of Downingtown, has been arrested. Police are still searching for Dapree Bryant, KeNario Davidson, and Daries Lockman, 29, of Coatesville. Detectives are also asking for help identifying a fifth suspect.
Chief Lee said the victims, ages 23 and 25, are recovering and did not suffer life-threatening injuries, though both were hospitalized.
The altercation began inside Buddy's Burgers just after 2 a.m. and spilled onto West Gay Street, a popular area lined with restaurants and shops.
"There's usually just a lot of people having dinner outside or drinks, families. It's a great town, honestly. We're not used to that kind of riffraff," said Jacquie Barbella of West Chester.
"I feel like anything can happen in a college town, so I'm not necessarily shocked," said Katy Frey, also of West Chester. "But it's disheartening to hear, and hopefully the victims receive justice."
Chief Lee said the department increases its presence on weekends to help prevent incidents after bars close. He also noted that at least two of the suspects have prior criminal records.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the West Chester Police Department at 610-696-2700.
