The Hells Angels have a notorious reputation, and their most brutal factions perhaps even have an unofficial slogan: "F*** around and found out." That is what the rival Pagans found out to their cost in a scene of carnage in Southern Massachusetts, where the two gangs clashed in a 50-man street brawl.
An FBI search warrant revealed that the two outlaw motorcycle gangs had been engaged in a brutal turf war after the Pagans began encroaching on Hells Angels territory. The Hells Angels and Pagans have a long-standing feud, with both sides having a history of serious crime ranging from drug trafficking to murder.
Turf War and "Green Light" Policy
In April 2022, the Pagans opened a new chapter in Fall River, near Hells Angels land close to the Rhode Island border. Realising their rivals were moving closer, the Hells Angels re-established their presence in Cape Cod, putting up a new sign. The FBI warrant stated that if a rival was spotted on their land, the gang used a "green light" policy to "attack on sight."
The May 14 Attack
On May 14, more than 100 Hells Angels riders gathered to make their way to the Pagans' clubhouse in Fall River. A die-hard group of 25 broke away from the rest and rode to the Pagans' stronghold, where they initially sat with their wives and girlfriends.
After sending the women inside, seven bikers pulled out knives, hammers and clubs. The sidewalk outside the clubhouse became a battleground. "An additional dozen or more HAMC members and associates were present at the scene and provided support by blocking traffic and serving as lookouts during the attack," the warrant said.
Aftermath
By the time police broke up the brawl, one Pagan still had a dagger in his body, while others had been stabbed and struck with ball-pein hammers. Pavements, cars and buildings were marked with blood, the warrant said.
All of the Pagan victims were taken to hospital, while the Hells Angels retreated to their Cape Cod clubhouse. It is not known whether anyone was killed in the fight.
The bikers changed clothes and quickly left the clubhouse, fleeing in different directions to confuse investigators who were monitoring the scene. Although no further violence was reported in the area, the confidential documents noted that further violence against the Pagans would likely follow.
