Camp Hill, PA — A violent altercation in the parking lot of a busy central Pennsylvania shopping center has resulted in serious criminal charges after authorities say a young child was placed directly in harm’s way during a physical fight involving multiple adults.
Fight Breaks Out at Capital City Mall
According to the Lower Allen Township Police Department, a four-person brawl erupted around noon on Saturday outside the Capital City Mall in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. Surveillance footage from the mall reportedly shows four women mutually engaging in a physical fight in the parking lot, drawing attention from nearby shoppers and motorists.
Police identified the individuals involved as Oreil Dykes, 26, Carrie Bowman, 46, Kajah George, 30, and Messiah Cloud, 21. Authorities say the confrontation escalated quickly and turned dangerous — especially because Dykes had her infant child with her at the scene.
Infant Left Unprotected During Altercation
Investigators say Oreil Dykes initially left her young child seated in a stroller in the main traffic aisle of the parking lot so she could participate in the fight. According to police reports, rather than removing the child from the situation, Dykes later returned and pushed the stroller closer to the ongoing altercation.
Authorities allege that while attempting to kick at another individual, Dykes tipped the stroller over, causing the unrestrained infant to be thrown onto the parking lot pavement. The incident was captured on surveillance video and reviewed by investigators.
Police have not released details about the child’s injuries, but the situation prompted immediate concern from responding officers due to the risk posed to the infant.
Police Response and Injuries Reported
When officers arrived at the scene, they made contact with Kajah George and Messiah Cloud, who were still present. Police noted that both women had visible injuries, including injuries to their knuckles and faces, consistent with being involved in a physical fight.
Carrie Bowman and Oreil Dykes were later identified as additional suspects. Authorities did not disclose what initially triggered the altercation or whether the individuals knew one another prior to the incident.
Criminal Charges Filed Against All Four Women
As a result of the investigation, Oreil Dykes, 26, faces the most serious consequences. She has been charged with:
- Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Felony)
- Simple Assault (Misdemeanor)
The remaining three women — Carrie Bowman, 46, Kajah George, 30, and Messiah Cloud, 21 — have each been charged with misdemeanor simple assault, police confirmed.
Authorities stated that Dykes was arrested on Saturday, the same day as the incident. The other three women were not taken into custody until Wednesday, several days later.
Court Dates and Ongoing Investigation
Court records show that Oreil Dykes is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Jan. 15. At this time, no court cases appear to be listed for Bowman, George, or Cloud stemming from the incident.
Police have not said whether additional charges could be filed or whether child protective services have been notified, though the nature of the allegations suggests the matter may receive further review.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fight, including what led up to the confrontation and whether additional witnesses may come forward.
What are your thoughts on this incident? Should penalties be tougher when children are endangered during violent disputes? Share your opinion in the comments and join the conversation.
