Fights erupt after Westwood HS graduation, leaving one hospitalized and charges pending

A brawl erupted on the field after the Westwood Regional High School graduation ceremony on Thursday evening leaving multiple people injured and sending one to the hospital, according to the Township of Washington Police Department.

On Thursday, following the conclusion of the 6 p.m. graduation ceremony, multiple fights broke out on the football field, police said. The involved parties were separated, and the crowds dispersed.

Multiple people were treated for injuries on the scene and one person was taken to the hospital.

"Congratulations to the Class of 2024! I am so proud of each and every one of you. 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," said Westwood Regional High School Principal Frank Connelly on social media and the school's website after the event.

According to the Washington Township police, there are multiple of videos of the event circulating social media. They are conducting an investigation using video footage and witness statements. If you have any information or video footage that you would like to submit you can send it to Detective Sgt. Fasciano at SFasciano@washtwppolice.org.

Criminal charges are pending.

"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," said the Township of Washington Police Department. "... 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."

The department continued, "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 Police Officer's instruction on scene. Speaking with family and friends about these situations will pay off in the future."

Multiple local agencies assisted in dispersing the crowds on Thursday night including the Hillsdale, Westwood, Old Tappan, Oradell, Emerson, River Vale, Waldwick, Ho Ho Kus, Ridgewood, and Paramus police departments as well as the Bergen County Sheriff.

The Washington Township, Westwood, and River Vale volunteer ambulance corps all responded and assisted in treating those injured in the brawl.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Westwood High School graduation ends with fight on football field