Two Arrested After Playground Fight at Fitzhugh Park School, Police Say

On April 8, 2026, at approximately 5:42 PM, the Oswego Police Department was dispatched to the playground at Fitzhugh Park School, located at 195 E. Bridge Street, for a reported fight in progress.

Upon arrival, officers observed two individuals who had sustained injuries to their face and head as a result of the altercation. Officers on scene determined that the injuries were consistent with the use of a weapon, specifically metal knuckles. The injured parties self-transported to Oswego Hospital for further evaluation.

Officers learned that four individuals involved in the incident had fled the area prior to police arrival and were identified as the primary aggressors. During the investigation, it was further reported by a witness that a handgun may have been displayed during the fight.

Through the course of the investigation, two of the individuals who fled the scene were identified as Angel Palmer, age 35, and Fernando Cruz, age 40, both of Oswego. Palmer and Cruz were later located in a vehicle and taken into custody.

At approximately 12:34 AM, officers executed a search warrant at their residence and on their vehicle. Metal knuckles were recovered in the vehicle, as well as a BB gun.

As a result of the investigation, Palmer and Cruz have been charged with the following:

• Assault in the 2nd Degree (Class D Felony)
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd Degree (Class D Felony)
• Conspiracy in the 5th Degree (Class A Misdemeanor)
• Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Class A Misdemeanor)

Both individuals were transported to the Oswego County Jail pending arraignment in Oswego CAP Court. The charge of Endangering the Welfare of a Child stems from the defendants’ conduct in the presence of juveniles under the age of 17.

The Oswego Police Department is currently attempting to identify a third outstanding suspect, described as a thin white or Hispanic male with long brown hair.

Police have obtained video footage of the incident; however, it was captured from a distance and does not clearly depict distinct facial features.

This investigation remains ongoing, and additional arrests are anticipated.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Derek Wiebel at 315-297-0619.

Any further media inquiries can be directed to Captain Bryan Thompson at 315-342-8893 or via email at [email protected].

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