Metro

Fights erupt at New Jersey HS graduation in caught-on-camera chaos: ‘Egregious behavior’

Several fights broke out at a New Jersey high school graduation, sending one person to the hospital and injuring several others, according to police.

As the graduation ceremony for Westwood High School in Bergen County ended Thursday night, multiple scuffles erupted on the school’s football field, according to the Washington Township Police Department.

“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,” police said in a statement.

Video shared on social media showed two separate fights on the football field as shocked students in their robes and their families looked on.

fight at graduation
Video posted on social media showed two separate fights on the football field. Jersey Talks/X
fight at high school graduation
The brawl erupted at the conclusion of Westwood High School’s graduation ceremony on Thursday. CBS News

Cops said they intervened and broke up the tussles.

One person was taken to an area hospital and multiple others received treatment for injuries at the scene, police said.

It’s not clear what sparked the chaos.

Police said they are aware of the video and are investigating the incident.

“Unfortunately, this type of behavior is occurring more often than not,” the department said.

Principal Frank Connelly indirectly referenced the incident in a tweet Friday morning congratulating the graduates.

“I am so proud of each and everyone of you,” Connelly said. “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.”

Students from Westwood and Washington Township attend the high school, which enrolls about 840 students, according to NJ.com.