Missouri Man Charged After Bear Spray Incident Disrupts Wedding Event

Authorities in Franklin County, Missouri, responded to a chaotic scene at a wedding venue last weekend, where a man was ultimately arrested and charged following multiple altercations with family members and guests. The incident reportedly involved the use of bear spray by a family member before law enforcement arrived.

Deputies were called to the Sunset Bluffs wedding venue in Washington, Missouri, last Saturday after reports of a man, identified as Benjamin J. Reeders, 28, allegedly assaulting several individuals at a "wedding-related event." Witnesses indicated that Reeders had physically attacked multiple people, including a photographer who sustained minor injuries.

According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Reeders is also accused of pushing his mother to the ground. Prior to the deputies' arrival, a family member reportedly deployed bear spray against Reeders in an attempt to control him. However, the bear spray did not deter him, and police stated that he remained combative and resisted arrest when confronted by officers.

Reeders was taken into custody and now faces charges of fourth-degree assault, third-degree assault, and resisting arrest. His cash bond has been set at $20,000.

Wedding Venue Addresses Incident

The management of Sunset Bluffs issued a statement regarding the disturbance, clarifying that the events transpired "while a small group of the wedding party was getting ready."

An invited guest arrived early in emotional distress and became involved in a physical altercation with his family and a photographer. We are relieved that everyone involved is OK.

The venue expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their swift response, reiterating that the safety and well-being of all participants at their events remain their highest priority. Despite the disruption, Sunset Bluffs confirmed that the wedding ceremony and celebrations proceeded as scheduled.