A violent mob attack outside a Cincinnati nightclub has left a man and a woman hospitalized with serious injuries and prompted national outrage, as graphic video of the incident spread rapidly online.
Cincinnati Police Chief Terri Theetge said the incident, which occurred downtown, may have been fueled in part by excessive alcohol consumption.
Theetge addressed the media at a Monday press conference, confirming that five individuals have been charged so far, with the potential for more arrests as the investigation unfolds.
“All potential charges are being investigated for everyone involved,” Theetge said.
“All investigative tools and techniques are on the table, including, were some of these people overserved at some local establishments? It is clear to us that alcohol played a part, a significant part in this incident.”
One of the individuals arrested, 34-year-old Montianez Merriweather, was taken into custody on Tuesday.
Police say Merriweather appears in the video footage that shows multiple individuals attacking a man and a woman outside the club.
The video, which has gone viral, shows the victims being beaten by a group of individuals as bystanders recorded and applauded the assault.
Merriweather faces charges of felonious assault and aggravated riot.
He has a criminal record