A wedding celebration in Washington, Missouri, was disrupted Saturday when a guest allegedly became involved in multiple physical altercations with other attendees and staff, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. Benjamin J. Reeders, 28, was arrested at the Sunset Bluffs wedding venue after being accused of assaulting several individuals, including a photographer who sustained minor injuries.
Witnesses reported that Reeders also pushed his mother to the ground. Prior to deputies arriving, a family member deployed bear spray on Reeders, according to law enforcement. Despite this, police stated that Reeders remained combative and resisted arrest. He was subsequently charged with fourth-degree assault, third-degree assault, and resisting arrest. His cash bond was set at $20,000.
The venue released a statement confirming the incident occurred while a small group of the wedding party was preparing for the event. They noted that an invited guest arrived in emotional distress and initiated a physical altercation. The venue expressed relief that those involved were unharmed and stated that law enforcement was thanked for their response. The wedding proceeded as planned.