Gang members clash, one seriously hurt

Press, 25 September 1989, Page 3

Gang members clash, one seriously hurt

By

NEIL CLARKSON

Rival gang members clashed in a Rangiora Street early yesterday, leaving one with serious injuries.

The brawl, involving Mongrel Mob and Highway 61 members, erupted near the corner of Albert Street and Burt Street, just before 1 a.m. The police believe batons were used as weapons in the fight outside a private party in the St John Ambulance Hall. Constable Alan Stevenson said it appeared both gangs had gatecrashed the party.

He said between four and eight Mongrel Mob members arrived about 9.30 p.m. and found a single Highway 61 member among guests in the hall. The Highway 61 mem-

ber left after being assaulted, and returned early in the morning with an unknown number of his gang friends. “That is when the fight broke out on the street.”

When the police arrived the Highway 61 members had left. St John Ambulance staff were treating the injured Mongrel Mob member, watched by about eight fellow gang members. Constable Stevenson said the gang member was admitted to hospital with serious head injuries. His condition improved yesterday. Gang members were saying little about the incident, he said. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Rangiora police.