News

Two men arrested after brawl over wearing masks in California Target

Two men were arrested for starting a brawl at a California Target after refusing to wear face masks, officials said, leaving one employee with a broken arm. 

The two men were reportedly confronted on May 1 for not wearing masks within the Van Nuys store, which is currently required during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Los Angeles Police Department said in a statement that they refused to wear face coverings, so they were escorted out of the store. 

Officials said the two men were being led toward the entrance when one of the suspects suddenly turned to punch a security guard.

The Target employee reportedly fell and broke his arm.

The two suspects allegedly began attacking the four store employees in the aisle, with one of the suspects throwing a security guard to the ground and repeatedly punching him.

Several customers appear to step in to help, video surveillance shows.

The men — identified as Phillip Hamilton, 31, and Paul Hamilton, 29 — were arrested and booked on felony battery charges with bail set at $50,000 each.

The brothers are homeless, LAPD spokesman Jim Gavin told CBS2 Los Angeles.

In a statement to CBS2, Target said the “safety and security of our guests and team members is our top priority.”

“We’re grateful for the support of local police and we’ll provide any information that can be helpful to their investigation.”