Fights break out at Independence Events Center after street basketball event

A disturbance broke out in the Independence Events Center parking lot Sunday night following a fights at a street basketball event.

Officers from both the Independence and Kansas City police departments, as well as troopers from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, responded to the events center at 19100 E. Valley View Parkway.

Several fights broke out about 9 p.m. following the “Ball Up” event featuring NBA player Eric Gordon of the New Orleans Pelicans as a guest coach.

Two teenagers were arrested at the event, said Tom Gentry, Independence police spokesman.

Officers arrested a 16-year-old who impeded the path of those wanting to leave the auditorium, Gentry said. A 15-year-girl, meanwhile, was arrested after being disruptive inside the auditorium, Gentry said. The 15-year-old struck a female Independence police officer in the face as the officer attempted to escort her from the building.

Although five troopers responded to the scene, the disturbance was under control by the time they arrived, said Sgt. Collin Stosberg of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

To reach Robert A. Cronkleton, call 816-234-4261 or send email to bcronkleton@kcstar.com.

To reach Brian Burnes, call 816-234-4120 or send email to bburnes@kcstar.com.

This story was originally published June 29, 2015 at 8:14 AM with the headline "Fights break out at Independence Events Center after street basketball event."