Officer Injured In Black Friday Brawl Outside Of Walmart
RIALTO, Calif. (CBS Sacramento) - A police officer with the Rialto police department was injured while trying to stop a fight that had broken out among Black Friday shoppers.
The trouble began when a local Walmart, scheduled to open at 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving, decided to allow shoppers in early, the San Bernardino County Sun is reporting. Over 3,000 people were said to be present at the time.
Three fights erupted in the ensuing chaos, two of which were reportedly over merchandise. The third fight, which took place outside the store, is the fight that led to the unnamed police officer's injury.
While attempting to split the fighting parties up, the officer sustained a broken wrist. He was subsequently taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Law enforcement officials from the Colton police department and the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office assisted in handling the situation, the Sun learned. Ultimately, all who were involved in the fights were taken into police custody.
Walmart representatives told the paper that safety is their greatest priority - for customers and employees alike.
"The fight at the Rialto store was an unfortunate and isolated incident to an otherwise very safe event," corporate spokeswoman Betsy Harden was quoted as saying. "Providing our customers with the best and safest shopping experience is always our top priority."
