During the Westwood High School graduation ceremony in Bergen County, chaos erupted as several fights broke out on the school's football field. The Washington Township Police Department reported that one person was sent to the hospital and several others were injured.

Instead of celebrating the accomplishments of the senior class, the night turned sour due to the disgraceful behavior of some individuals, according to the police. Shocking videos shared on social media captured the disturbing scenes of multiple scuffles unfolding as students and their families looked on.

Law enforcement officers quickly intervened and put a stop to the altercations. While one person was taken to the hospital, multiple others received treatment for their injuries at the scene.

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The exact cause of the chaos remains unclear, and authorities are currently investigating the incident. The police department expressed their disappointment, citing that such behavior is unfortunately becoming all too common.

Despite the chaos, Principal Frank Connelly took to Twitter to congratulate the graduates. "I am so proud of each and everyone of you," said Connelly. "It is an honor to serve as your principal and to be part of this amazing community. I refuse to allow anything to take away from that."

Westwood High School, which serves approximately 840 students from Westwood and Washington Township, found itself marred by these regrettable incidents during what should have been a joyous occasion.


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You can read the full press release from The Washington Township Police Department below:

The Washington Township Police Department is reporting an incident that occurred at the Westwood High School Senior Class Graduation tonight, Thursday June 20, 2024.  As the Graduation ceremony concluded, Washington Township Police on scene reported multiple physical altercations on the football field where the ceremony just took place.  The parties were separated and the crowds dispersed.  At least one individual was injured and taken to an area hospital, while multiple other individuals were treated on scene and refused further medical attention.  This was supposed to be an enjoyable night that the Westwood High School Senior class worked hard for and have been waiting for, which has been tainted due to the egregious behavior by some.

We are aware of the multiple videos regarding the event throughout social media.  The Washington Township Police Department is conducting a complete and thorough investigation.  We are reviewing video footage, as well as taking statements from witnesses and individuals involved.  If you have video footage or information that you would like to submit, please send it to Detective Sgt. Fasciano at [email protected].  Criminal Charges are pending.

Unfortunately, this type of behavior is occurring more often than not.  As we work to prosecute those responsible, it is a great time to speak to your children, family members and friends about how to act appropriately.  If something is occurring in front of you that you know is an issue, please call the Police.  If an issue arises to an emergent or dangerous situation, leave immediately and follow the Police Officers instruction on scene.  Speaking with family and friends about these situations will pay off in the future.

Washington Township Police Department were assisted by multiple agencies in dispersing the crowds.  We want to Thank the following departments for their assistance tonight: Hillsdale, Westwood, Old Tappan, Oradell, Emerson, River Vale, Waldwick, Ho Ho Kus, Ridgewood, Paramus, Bergen County Sherriff.  We also want to thank the Washington Township Volunteer Ambulance Corp, Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corp and the River Vale Volunteer Ambulance Corp who responded and assisted with the injured parties.

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