Colorado youth basketball game ends after referees get into fight
A chaotic scene unfolded at a youth basketball tournament in Lakewood, as three referees engaged in a violent fistfight that left spectators in disbelief.
The incident, captured on video, has sparked outrage from parents and a swift response from the organizers.
In the viral video, one referee can be seen throwing a punch at another referee, causing him to fall to the floor. And as the chaos escalated, a third referee joined in, jumping on top of the man on the ground. But even as the fighting escalated, the dazed referee managed to regain his footing and kept swinging with the referee who initially attacked him.
By the time law enforcement arrived at the scene, the fighting referees had already fled. The Lakewood Police Department has launched an investigation into the incident and is determined to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
The Gold Crown Foundation, a Colorado-based nonprofit that provides sports and entertainment opportunities for youth, was hosting the event where the fight erupted. In a statement provided to TMZ, the foundation announced that the involved referees will face indefinite suspensions from working for the organization.
READ MORE:
MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE RIDES AND GAMES AT THE COLORADO STATE FAIR CARNIVAL
COLORADO'S 5.3% INFLATION RATE OUTPACES NATIONAL AVERAGE OF 3.7%
Expressing deep remorse for the incident, the Gold Crown Foundation emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe and positive environment for the young athletes. Their official statement to TMZ read, "We have informed these independently contracted officials that they are suspended indefinitely from working for Gold Crown Foundation. Most importantly, we apologize to everyone that had to witness their unacceptable behavior - especially the kids."