16 arrested at counter-protest to Blue Lives Matter march

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Police say they arrested 16 people at a counter-protest to a small Philadelphia march in support of police.

According to police, approximately 75 people were taking part in Saturday's "Blue Lives Matter" march that started at Independence Hall and went through Center City.

Police say about 75 protesters identifying themselves as part of anti-fascist or "antifa" groups were protesting near City Hall at about 11:30 a.m. Saturday, and several members began to fight with police.

A total of 16 people were arrested, nine of whom were issued citations for failure to disperse and seven of whom charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct.

Police said the "Blue Lives Matter" march was occurring simultaneously, but the two groups didn't interact.