The makeup carries grave significance for the group as Brian Sims, a former Zulu king, explains: "Back in the 1900s, the rules are, you have to mask. Every organization wears a mask during Mardi Gras.

Witnesses said a bystander saw the men in masks and went back to his car to leave. The video showed the black Audi and another SUV who was on scene of the initial fight trying to surround the man ...

The traditional colours of Mardi Gras — purple, green and gold — represent justice, faith and power. Many revellers wear these colours, and some go all out with elaborate costumes and masks.