A hate group attacked a man at a popular local beach, according to investigators. 

The attack happened late last week at the Yorktown waterfront.  

Sgt. Dennis Ivey of the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office said 3 suspects confronted a group of young adults under the Coleman Bridge.  He said the suspects began shouting slurs and punching one of the men.  Ivey said the suspects even kicked the victim’s head several times while he was on the ground.  

Authorities arrested 18-year-old Kayla Harris, 18-year-old Paul Harris, and 27-year-old Robert Williams.  They face serious charges including assault by mob and gang participation in a criminal act. 

“It just shows that they don’t take this thing lightly,” said Tiffany Kennel of Yorktown.  “That goes a long way.  I feel safer knowing that they’re patrolling the streets.” 

“I think it’s really sad that people have to beat up other people for just the way they believe and things that they do,” said 18-year-old Chelsea Guy.  

But Becky Rosso said the situation is being blown out of proportion.  Her son knows Paul Harris. 

“I think it was just a fight that escalated and I think they’re trying to make more of it than it is really,” explained Rosso. 

Investigators said more arrests in connection to the gang beating could be coming.