Mustard bottles flying at hot dog stand

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - New developments Friday in the story of the veteran Springfield hot dog vendor who's been displaced from his original location by the city.

Early Friday morning, around 1a.m., John Verducci was in a private lot across the street from his usual parking spot. A witness told 22News, a man allegedly approached Verducci's cart and verbally threatened him.

The man allegedly cleared off the counter using his arm, sending mustard bottles flying that hit some patrons.

Verducci told 22News he knows the man who caused the incident but would not refer to him by name.

Verducci said he does not plan on pressing charges but has filed a complaint with the State Ethics Commission over the change in location. No report has been filed with Springfield Police.

Verducci says his displacement is costing him more money. However, it was necessary after he received a letter from the city's parking director saying vendors and hawkers are no longer allowed to sell items on the public right of way.

Out on the street, many people who regularly frequent bars and restaurants in the entertainment district don't see what the big deal is.

Springfield police say the hot dog truck impedes their ability to clear the area after the bars let out.

"Well, free enterprise is a great thing. I mean if this guy has been here for 15 years, why should he have to move right now. I think it's a great idea that he's out here to provide something a little solid for the customers that are coming out of the bars in this area after a whole night of partying or whatever you want to call it," said Tom Picard.

"It's pretty odd. It sounds a little bit troublesome. I mean everyone else is allowed to park there, I don't see why this gentleman can't continue his business being over there," said Joe Truncali.

22News attempted to speak to the owners of Theodores, Salty Dog, and Fat Cats to find out what their position on the hot dog trailer is, but all three of the managers and owners declined to comment.