Security will be increased for tonight's final games of the Somali American Independence Days soccer tournament after fights broke out Friday night.
Small fights between fans turned into a larger disturbance that prompted the St. Paul police to call all available officers to the soccer stadium near St. Paul Central High School.
St. Paul police spokesman Sgt. Paul Schnell characterized the fight as the type that can break out between spirited fans at any sporting event. "It's generally a few loud-mouthed people who get engaged and draw the attention of other people," he said.
An estimated 200 out of the approximately 1,000 people at the game were involved, refusing to leave the event when asked by officers to do so.
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One person was arrested and may be charged with gross misdemeanor riot and obstructing the legal process.
Police do not believe anyone was injured. As a precaution, St. Paul Police Chief John Harrington ordered an increase in security for tonight's event.
Kara McGuire • 612-673-7293