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Gang attack disrupts Ripon family BBQ
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Family members and children continued to mill around their front yard in the 600 block of Ripona Avenue following an attack by gang members. - photo by GLENN KAHL
RIPON - It was the young children – about 10 in all – who were probably the most traumatized by a gang attack Saturday afternoon in the 600 block of Ripona Avenue with one of the youngsters calling police saying his dad was being hit in the head.

Ripon Police Officer Ken Husman said the incident began at about 6 p.m. when three Hispanic male adults,  who were  walking in the street near a front yard family barbecue,  allegedly made insulting remarks to the adults in the yard. A fight then ensued.

One man believed to be in his mid-20s was reportedly carrying what appeared to be a tree branch that he used to strike a visiting adult family member in the head. Four patrol cars responded to the disturbance and the men fled the scene, according to witnesses.

Officers searched the neighborhoods and alleys.  One patrol car responded to the catwalk over Highway 99 after having reports that at least one of them used that pathway to escape from police.

A 35-year-old Manteca man was arrested for disturbing the peace and police are continuing to look for the other two – both in their 20s.  The suspect who was said to have wielded the branch is being sought on an assault with a deadly weapon charge.

The injured family member was treated by fire department medics at the scene.

The Manteca man was taken to the Ripon Police Department and issued a citation for disturbing the peace and released.  The Ripona neighborhood has been known for past gang activities in the community.