ST. JOSEPH, Mich. -- The Berrien County Sheriff's Office was forced to shut down Silver Beach County Park early Tuesday night after multiple fights broke out in the area. 

Authorities say they responded to a large disturbance around 8:34 p.m. at the park and acted "quickly to assist and dispersed a disorderly crowd."

"Despite initial efforts, several additional fights broke out in the vicinity. To gain control of the situation and prevent further violence, deputies deployed oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, commonly referred to as pepper spray, against individuals actively engaged in physical altercations," the BCSO said.

"Due to ongoing disorderly behavior, the shift lieutenant for the BCSO made the decision to close Silver Beach County Park for the remainder of the evening. Announcements were made over the public address systems of multiple patrol vehicles instructing patrons to vacate the park."

In the end, three adults were cited for misdemeanor disturbing the peace and authorities are working to get an arrest warrant for an "individual identified as an instigator in the initial assault which was captured on citizen video and provided to deputies."

Earlier in the day, before the fights, the BCSO issued six citations for possession of alcohol in violation of park rules.

"The BCSO would like to remind the public that there is a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol, marijuana use in public, and general criminal conduct within Berrien County Parks," a BCSO spokesperson said.

"We remain committed to ensuring that our public spaces remain safe and enjoyable for all residents and visitors."