WEST NEWBURY — Police Chief Jeffrey Durand reports that the West Newbury Police Department is actively investigating after a party involving underage individuals over the weekend resulted in a person sustaining injuries and property being damaged.
West Newbury Police responded to a residence on Ash Street at 11:49 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5, for a report of a large fight involving approximately 20 people. Upon arrival, police found numerous motor vehicles parked outside the residence, some of which were attempting to leave.
Outside the home police came upon a JUVENILE MALE who claimed he had been attacked by other people at the party. He sustained injuries that are not believed to have been life threatening and was transported by ambulance to an area hospital.
As police secured the home, they observed significant damage, including broken windows and furniture, smashed picture frames, objects thrown into a pool, and exterior damage. Police identified 26 people on the property from Lawrence, Lynnfield, Middleton, Newburyport, Peabody, West Newbury and Dover and Plaistow, New Hampshire. All parties were issued summons’ to appear in court for Disorderly Conduct and Malicious Destruction of Property, less than $1,200. Juveniles at the scene were further charged with Possession of Liquor by a Person Under 21.
The owner of the residence was not home at the time of the incident. However, a JUVENILE FEMALE, AGE 17, OF WEST NEWBURY, who resides in the residence was present.
Massachusetts residents found to be violating gatherings restrictions amid COVID-19 can face fines up to $500. The state issued an updated gatherings order on Aug. 7 limiting indoor gatherings to eight people per 1,000 square feet, with a maximum of 25 people permitted in one enclosed indoor area. Outdoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 50 people in a single enclosed outdoor space, at 25% of the facility’s maximum allowable occupancy.
No fines related to social distancing rules have been issued regarding this incident at this time, however.
Police from the Newbury, Groveland, Merrimac and Georgetown Police Departments also responded to the scene, as did members of the West Newbury Fire Department.
Police are actively investigating this incident. It is probable that additional charges will be forthcoming, and the West Newbury Board of Health has been notified.
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