Police investigate previous event in connection with Ball attack - WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |

MADISON (WKOW) -- Madison police detectives sought information Friday about what they called a possibly precipitating event to Wednesday's early morning attack on Badgers running back Montee Ball.

A source with knowledge of the police investigation told 27 News the event took place last Friday and involved a gathering of people. The source spoke on the condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to release the information publicly. The source was reluctant to characterize the event as a party, and declined to disclose whether Ball attended. The entertainment website TMZ has reported a fight involving Ball at a party may have led to a retaliatory attack on Ball. In a tweet, Ball said he was not involved in any fight.

Madison police detectives conducted interviews with potential witnesses Friday, at the headquarters of the UW-Madison Police Department. At least one UW football player was interviewed. One man leaving a police interview refused to identify himself to 27 News, but said the situation involving Ball was being "blown out of proportion."

Audio of 911 calls released to 27 News indicate Ball was conscious after being punched and kicked as he walked in the 500 block of University Avenue. UW Athletic department officials said Ball suffered a concussion and facial injuries.