Six Indicted in Violent Downtown Cincinnati Brawl Caught on Bodycam

Download IPFS

Police have released newly obtained body camera footage capturing the moments officers arrived at the scene of a violent downtown Cincinnati brawl that left six people injured and resulted in six arrests. The incident, which occurred around 3:25 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, quickly went viral after bystander videos showed the brutal nature of the fight.

According to Fox News Digital, a single 911 call prompted officers to respond to the corner of Fourth and Elm streets. In the footage, a 62-year-old man tells police he was attacked by multiple people after leaving a bar, insisting he had no altercation inside beforehand. Officers can be heard questioning witnesses, with one asking whether the dispute began over food purchased from a nearby food truck.

Witness accounts indicate that tensions escalated after racial slurs were allegedly used. One video shows a man shouting slurs before being thrown to the ground and repeatedly kicked. Another witness told Fox News Digital that while the victims appeared aggressive toward the group already present, several people attempted to break up the fight.

All six suspects—Patrick Rosemond, 38; Jermaine Matthews, 39; Montianez Merriweather, 34; DeKyra Vernon, 24; Dominique Kittle, 37; and Aisha Devaughn, 25—have been indicted by a grand jury. They each face three counts of felonious assault, three counts of assault, and two counts of aggravated rioting. Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich stated the charges are intended to hold those involved accountable. If convicted, the suspects could face up to 29.5 years in prison.

The attack also left bystander Holly, who was attempting to stop the fight, with life-altering injuries, including brain damage and a severe concussion. She described the ordeal as terrifying, recalling that her “life flashed” before her eyes. Holly now requires ongoing assistance for daily needs.

The incident has fueled debate over public safety and police presence in downtown Cincinnati. Police Chief Theresa Theetge revealed that approximately 100 people were present during the fight, yet only one called 911. She criticized the lack of public intervention, noting that the violence occurred in front of heavy traffic.

Mayor Aftab Pureval condemned the attack, vowing to hold those responsible accountable. However, his leadership has been criticized by mayoral challenger Cory Bowman, who argues that lenient bail policies and lack of police support from City Hall have contributed to rising violence. Bowman claimed officers are told to “dial back” enforcement, creating a “catch-and-release” environment for offenders.

City Council Member Anna Albi also condemned the violence and pledged continued investment in both police resources and community safety programs. The case remains under investigation as the community awaits the outcome of the prosecutions.