Vrbnica: Mass brawl between rival families leaves several injured

A violent mass brawl between rival families in the village of Vrbnica, Michalovce district, has resulted in several injuries and a significant police intervention. The conflict escalated when a group reportedly attacked relatives of a rival family using tools such as pitchforks and sticks.

One man was hospitalized with serious puncture wounds to his lungs caused by a pitchfork, while another man was treated for head injuries sustained from being struck with a stick. During the confrontation, reports indicate that Molotov cocktails were thrown and vehicles were damaged.

The violence stems from long-standing tensions dating back to November 2025, following an arson attack on a family's vehicle and business premises. Although camera footage later cleared a local businessman, Tomáš Tokár, of involvement, the animosity persisted. The conflict reportedly expanded in March 2026 to involve additional families and has been linked by locals to political tensions surrounding upcoming municipal elections.

Police deployed dozens of officers to the area and have detained two men in connection with the incident. Authorities have maintained a presence in the village to monitor the situation.