Gangs blamed for state brawl

CHICAGO -- Rival gangs were apparently to blame for a large brawl that broke out during a boys high school state tournament basketball game at the United Center, police said Tuesday.

Two people were sent to hospitals after Monday night's fight.

An off-duty Chicago police sergeant was in good condition after suffering a heart attack while trying to break up the fight. A teenager also suffered blunt trauma to the head; hospital officials would not release his condition, citing privacy rules.

Rival gangs appeared to be flashing gang signs in the concession area as the Class AA supersectional game between Harvey Thornton and Homewood-Flossmoor was ending, said police spokesman Pat Camden.

A fight ensued that eventually involved dozens of people, and security teams at the United Center called in Chicago police for help.

"It was chaos, madness. They were throwing trash cans," said witness Shardaa Grey.

No arrests had been made Tuesday, and Camden said they were unlikely because most of those involved fled as police arrived.

Harvey Thornton won the game over Homewood-Flossmoor 46-40. In another Class AA supersectional Monday, Chicago Crane beat Winnetka New Trier 58-40.

The winners advance to this weekend's state basketball tournament in Peoria's Carver Arena.

The Illinois High School Association issued a statement saying it continued to investigate the incident, but that it appeared both fans and students of Harvey Thornton and Chicago Crane were involved.

The IHSA said it has been in contact with state and local law enforcement officials to make sure adequate security is in place in Peoria.

"We are confident that given the isolated nature of this incident, our players, coaches and fans will be able to enjoy the remainder of our tournament without worry of a repeat of last night's events," IHSA Executive Director Martin Hickman said in the statement.