Seven arrests made in connection to large fight at the Monterey County Fair.

On Saturday, Aug. 30, at 7:50pm, Monterey Police officers responded to reports of a fight that broke out in the carnival area of the Monterey County Fair and Event Center during the annual fair. Videos began to spread online, along with rumors that a man was armed with a gun.

Although no evidence was found of an active shooter, out of an abundance of caution, the decision was made to shut down the fair early that night and evacuate attendees.

Twelve days later, seven arrests have been made, and the investigation continues with more charges expected. The incident, which involved numerous people, is being investigated as a potential gang crime.

“Our detectives have been working on this case essentially non-stop every day since it occurred, resulting in so far these seven arrests,” says Lt. Ethan Andrews of the Monterey Police Department.

Videos from bystanders were crucial in helping investigators—including the Seaside Police Department and Monterey County Probation Department—identify suspects. The videos showed a large group of males punching and kicking victims numerous times.

On Sept. 1, the Seaside Police Department arrested a 17-year-old who was booked into juvenile hall on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. That same day, the Monterey Police Department arrested Mario Giovanny Perez Luis, 19, who was booked into the Monterey County Jail on the same charge. His bail was set at $200,000.

On Sept. 3, Monterey Police arrested a 17-year-old and two 15-year-olds, all of whom were booked into juvenile hall on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. Three days later, police arrested another 17-year-old on the same charge.

On Sept. 10, Roberto Mendez, 20, was arrested and booked into the Monterey County Jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. His bail was set at $200,000.

The deadly weapons in question were their hands and feet. After interviewing witnesses and evaluating evidence, no shooting or firearm has been confirmed at the incident. 

“We believe that that a high bar has been met to set their hands and feet as a deadly weapon,” Andrews says. “[There was a very clear] number of suspects disproportionate to the number of victims and the sustained beating that they committed over a long duration of time, repeatedly striking and often kicking the victims.”

There have been two identified victims so far, with the potential for more as the case remains open. The victims’ names have not been released due to their status and their age, says Andrews. The injuries suffered by the victims are not life-threatening.

The Monterey County Fair & Event Center released an announcement the day of the incident, stating “Fair gates were closed prior to 9pm this evening due to a health and safety concern involving patrons.

“It is confirmed that no injuries have occurred,” it states. They offered full refunds for patrons who bought tickets but were unable to redeem them prior to gate closure, as well as free entry on Sunday or Monday.

“We're really pleased with the effort that our detectives have put into this to investigate a complex case involving so many different people,” Andrews says. “What occurred that night was completely unacceptable; it could have been a terrible tragedy for the victims involved. It impacted thousands of people who spent their time and hard earned money to be at the fair.”

Members of the public with any relevant information are urged to contact Sgt. Greg Galin at 646-3872. Anonymous tips may be submitted via 646-3840.