20 teenagers were arrested at Summit Mall when a fight broke out

FAIRLAWN, Ohio (WOIO) – Chaos at Summit Mall led to the arrest of 20 teens on Thursday.

According to Summit County Sheriff Kandy Fatheree, several fights occurred inside the mall and in the parking lot, causing the mall to close early around 5:30 p.m

19 News witnessed a scuffle between two young women and police, who were then handcuffed and arrested outside the Fairlawn mall.

Vijay Shah, who lives in the area and walks around the mall to exercise, was shocked to learn about the fights and chaos: “This is like a festive season and people want to enjoy it. Hearing this is a real shock and makes you wonder why violence among teenagers is increasing.”

A couple from Medina who came to the mall to eat dinner and shop were confused by the large police presence and an ambulance: “We stopped and asked, and there were a few children screaming and confused. It’s kind of scary. We were just trying to have a good time and I don’t want to get attacked or anything.”

19 News has learned from people who worked at the mall that sheriff’s deputies and police entered the mall in full force around noon, assuming additional security would be needed.

According to a source close to police, for the past four years teenagers have been coming to Summit Mall the day after Christmas to argue and present their own interpretation of the Canadian and British holiday, which is an extension of Christmas and falls on December 26th.

It is known as Boxing Day. A holiday that encourages exercise but in no way encourages fighting.

During the arrests of the 20 young people, several police officers were attacked and an ambulance was called to examine one officer who appeared to have an injury near his eye.

19 News has reached out to Summit Mall management for comment and we are waiting to hear back.

The sheriff said the teens face charges including assault on a peace officer, obstruction of justice, disorderly conduct and trespassing.

In addition to the Summit County Sheriff’s Department, the Bath, Fairlawn and Copley police departments also responded to assist.

19 News has reached out to Summit Mall Management for comment and we are awaiting a response.