The City of Reading Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying several individuals present during a significant disturbance at the Pagoda on Saturday evening, June 8th.
According to police, the incident began around 8:05 PM when officers, engaged in an illegal dirt bike initiative, responded to reports of a large group of motorcyclists, ATVs, and dirt bike riders causing a commotion at the Pagoda. The crowd was estimated to exceed 200 people.
A Reading Police Officer who arrived first to the scene tried to apprehend a suspect for a criminal act (which police did not elaborate), leading to immediate resistance. The tension escalated further as other individuals in the crowd interfered, with at least one other person assaulting the officer. Despite sustaining multiple bruises and a bleeding nose, the officer managed to call for backup. Eleven additional officers soon arrived to help disperse the crowd.
The suspect, identified as Luis Melo-Castillo of Reading, was arrested and now faces several charges. The police are now focusing on identifying others involved.
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Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the Reading Police Department at 610-655-6116 or Berks Crime Alert at 1-877-373-9913. Information can be provided anonymously.
