A chaotic Waterpark Brawl Arrest unfolded at Runaway Rapids in Keansburg, New Jersey, after a family “joy day” exploded into a physical fight between two women . Officers arrived at 275 Beachway Avenue on June 2, 2024, to find a mother clutching her face and multiple children caught in the middle of a violent dispute. The incident quickly went viral as witnesses described one woman “swinging” on the other while holding a newborn baby in her arms.
Police had to separate the parties immediately to prevent further violence in front of park guests. Both women now face criminal charges for their roles in the public altercation.
Table of Contents
Watch: Waterpark Brawl Arrest Caught on Camera
Note: Pay close attention to the timestamp at 00:06:40 where a witness identifies the “lady in red” as the primary aggressor who allegedly fueled the escalation.
Full Story: How the Incident Unfolded
The day was supposed to be a celebration. Elizabeth Ortiz Delgado, her husband Joshua Nova, and their children traveled to the waterpark for a “joy day”.
However, the peace was shattered when they encountered Ana Espinal. According to Elizabeth, the meeting was a total coincidence.
Ana disagreed, claiming Joshua knew she would be there with their son for a party. Tensions between the group were already high due to a restraining order involving Joshua and Ana.
The verbal argument turned physical near the park entrance. Elizabeth claimed she was sitting with her newborn when Ana attacked her.
“I’m talking with my kids, my newborn in my hand,” Elizabeth told officers while gesturing to her face. She alleged that Ana had a history of using the restraining order to harass the family.
But other versions of the story emerged as police began their investigation. Officers noticed red marks on Elizabeth’s daughter and son, further complicating the scene.
Witness Testimony: The “Lady in Red”
Independent witnesses at Runaway Rapids provided a different account of the Waterpark Brawl Arrest. One witness specifically identified the “lady in the red” shirt as the aggressor.
The witness stated that the woman in red approached the other party and began “swinging on her”. Most shockingly, the witness noted that the woman was holding a small baby while throwing punches.
“I saw her swinging and she didn’t make contact… then she like, really was like, connected with her twice,” the witness told Ptl. Hosey. The witness also described a brutal moment where one woman grabbed the other’s hair and pulled her through the “holes” of a turnbuckle fence.
Another witness claimed that during the fight, food was used as a weapon. Elizabeth allegedly threw a container of “Dippin Dots” ice cream.
The frozen snack reportedly hit a baby, leaving red marks on the child’s skin. This specific detail led officers to realize that both women had engaged in criminal behavior.
The Arrest: Charges Against Espinal and Ortiz Delgado
After reviewing the witness statements and physical evidence, police determined that a Waterpark Brawl Arrest was necessary for both parties. Both women had sustained minor injuries during the fight.
Ana had pain and redness under her right eye. Elizabeth had an abrasion and swelling on one of her fingers.
| Charge | Simple Explanation | Potential Penalty (US) |
| 2C:12-1A(1) – Simple Assault | Purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another. | Up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. |
Elizabeth was processed under warrant 1321-S-2024-118. Ana was processed under warrant 1321-5-2024-120.
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Legal Analysis: Was the Waterpark Brawl Arrest Justified?
As a legal matter, the officers had to weigh conflicting stories. However, the presence of independent witnesses changed the narrative.
Fourth Amendment Check: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. In this case, the arrest was legal because officers had “probable cause” based on witness statements and visible injuries on both women.
Police Protocol: Ptl. Hosey followed standard procedure by separating the suspects and checking on the welfare of the children. He even used “front-cuffs” on Elizabeth as a sign of respect because her children were watching.
While child endangerment charges were considered, Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Ammon advised against them. He cited a lack of “specific information” at the time to prove the children were intentionally placed at risk.
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5 general and normal FAQs regarding the charges and legal processes
What exactly is “Simple Assault” under New Jersey law?
In New Jersey, Simple Assault (2C:12-1a) occurs when a person attempts to cause, or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another person
. It can also include putting someone in fear of immediate physical danger through “physical menace”.
Can someone be arrested if the other person started the fight?
Yes. In many cases, if both parties engage in a physical altercation, law enforcement may arrest both individuals if they cannot clearly determine a single primary aggressor or if both used excessive force. In this specific incident, both Elizabeth and Ana were charged with Simple Assault following their mutual physical altercation.
What happens if a child is accidentally struck during a fight between adults?
While this case did not immediately result in child endangerment charges, the police did consult with the Assistant Prosecutor regarding the risk posed to the children. Typically, if a child is injured or put at risk during an adult dispute, authorities may involve Child Protection Services or consider additional charges depending on the severity and intent.
Does a “Simple Assault” charge always lead to jail time?
Not necessarily. Simple Assault is often classified as a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey. While it can carry a potential penalty of up to six months in jail and fines, first-time offenders or those in mutual-fight situations may receive probation, community service, or fines instead of incarceration.
What is the difference between a “Warrant” and a “Summons” in this context?
In this case, both women were processed and released with a Keansburg Municipal Court date. Usually, when someone is charged with Simple Assault and released, they are issued a summons, which is an order to appear in court on a specific date rather than being held in jail until a hearing.
Conclusion & Current Status
The Waterpark Brawl Arrest ended with both women being transported to Keansburg Police Headquarters for processing. They were both released later that day.
A small piece of property was left behind in the chaos. A staff member found a broken gold necklace with a face pendant where Elizabeth had been standing. Elizabeth confirmed it was hers and planned to retrieve it during her court date.
Both Elizabeth Ortiz Delgado and Ana Espinal were ordered to appear in Keansburg Municipal Court on June 20, 2024, at 8:30 AM.
Download Police Report click here.
Disclaimer: All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This report is based on official police records and bodycam transcripts.
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