A fun-filled Memorial Day weekend at the Jersey Shore turned into a scene of chaos and violence as police arrested more than 70 people, including 21 minors, and had to temporarily shut down the famous Seaside Heights boardwalk.
Over 100,000 visitors were in town for the long weekend, but instead of peaceful celebrations, the area saw multiple stabbings, fights, and even a pedestrian hit by a car.
What Happened in Seaside Heights?
The trouble began early Friday and continued until around 6 a.m. on Monday. During this 72-hour period, police were called to several violent incidents near the boardwalk, which is known for its amusement rides, arcades, and seaside fun.
According to Detective Steve Korman of the Seaside Heights Police Department, 52 adults and 21 juveniles were arrested for various crimes.
Even though three young men were stabbed within just one block of the boardwalk, no arrests were made because the victims refused to cooperate with the investigation.
Police Close Boardwalk for Safety
After a third stabbing occurred just after midnight on Monday, Police Chief Thomas Boyd decided to close the boardwalk temporarily. This was described as a “proactive approach” to maintain public safety.
It is unclear how long the boardwalk remained closed, but the closure was aimed at stopping further violence and protecting visitors.
Arrests and Other Incidents
One of the people arrested was a 21-year-old man from Beachwood, who was caught after a 911 call about a fight. Police said he was carrying a gun and also resisted arrest. He now faces multiple charges, including illegal weapon possession and obstruction.
In another separate incident, a pedestrian in nearby Seaside Park was hit by a car and had to be flown to a hospital for treatment. No further updates on the person’s condition have been shared yet.
Eyewitnesses Say Things Got Out of Control
Locals said the weekend felt like “mayhem.” Sarah Frailey, who works at a bar along the boardwalk, told the media:
“Kids were out of control. It’s like the ‘Jersey Shore’ show.”
Authorities had expected large crowds and had prepared by bringing in an extra 100 police officers. Borough officials even had a backup plan to call in outside law enforcement if things got too wild.
Similar Chaos Last Year
This isn’t the first time Memorial Day weekend has gone out of control in Seaside Heights. Last year, a 15-year-old was stabbed during a brawl on the same boardwalk. Police had to briefly shut it down after a panic broke out due to false reports of gunfire.