Philadelphia Wedding Brawl: Police ID suspect in fight between guests at hotel

(CBS/AP) PHILADELPHIA - Police have identified a New Jersey man charged in connection with a massive wedding brawl that broke out at a Philadelphia hotel Sunday, during which one man had a fatal heart attack and three people were arrested.

Police confirmed that 26-year-old Matthew Sofka of Westfield has been charged with aggravated assault, simple assault and other counts in connection with the fight.

Lt. Raymond Evers, a Philadelphia police spokesman, said the investigation is continuing and police expect more arrests in the future. Investigators don't know what started the brawl, but alcohol was involved.

At least two separate wedding parties clashed in the fight that began inside a Sheraton hotel in the Society Hill section of Philadelphia, police said. Dozens of people were involved. The brawl spilled out into the street and police were called in around 1:30 a.m.

Eyewitnesses told CBS Philly that the fight began in the lobby and escalated to the point where the cops requested a 3rd assist, which is an all-hands-on-deck call. The melee was caught on video and posted to YouTube.

Authorities said the two other men arrested after the fight were cited for disorderly conduct and released.

Police said a 57-year-old guest suffered a fatal heart attack outside the reception and died at Jefferson Hospital around 2:50 a.m. They don't know if he was involved in any of the fights.

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey has watched the video and he will consult the district attorney about filing charges against more of the brawlers, police said.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Sheraton said they are cooperating with authorities and offered their condolences to the family for their loss.

More on CrimesiderOctober 8, 2012 - Philadelphia Wedding Brawl: One dead, three arrested in wild melee between receptions at hotel, police say