Family Gathering Scuffle Leads to 5 Arrests in South Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — A family gathering at Chickie's & Pete's in South Philadelphia escalated into a violent altercation, leading to charges against five individuals, according to police reports released Thursday. The incident occurred on August 2, prompting officers to respond to a robbery alarm and reports of a person screaming at the restaurant located near Packer Avenue. Upon arrival, police discovered two groups engaged in a physical confrontation. Joseph Baldino, 39, was arrested after allegedly resisting arrest and assaulting a police sergeant multiple times during attempts to de-escalate the situation. Following medical treatment at Methodist Hospital, Baldino was charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, and other related offenses. Additionally, John Ciancaglini, 68, and his wife, Kathy Ciancaglini, 62, both from South Philadelphia, faced charges of disorderly conduct, criminal conspiracy, and related offenses for their roles in the brawl. The couple's involvement highlights the chaotic nature of the family gathering that spiraled out of control. Two brothers, Richard DiBella, 45, and Michael DiBella, 37, also implicated in the incident, have since turned themselves in to authorities. The police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fight, which underscores the potential for family gatherings to devolve into violence.