Three people were arrested, including two from New York, during a wild brawl that broke out at a community college graduation in Connecticut — after lax arena security failed to stomp it out.
The commencement ended in chaos when two families allegedly started throwing punches that ignited a melee during the Gateway Community College graduation ceremony at the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater on Thursday.
Police were called in to reports of a massive fight at the arena around 6:15 p.m., and were forced to wade into the melee to separate the participants, News 8 reported.
One parent was furious that security at the arena didn’t respond fast enough and allowed it to spiral out of control.
“I was really appalled and exasperated at the lack of response when a violent situation broke out,” the parent told the outlet.
“It just seems unbelievable that an arena that size would not have a protocol and security with all eyes on the situation.”
The three individuals arrested were 28-year-old Tyvona Bradley, of New Haven, and 34-year-old Takira Simmons and 35-year-old Erika Price, both of New York.
School officials briefly paused handing out the diplomas while police broke up the fight, the college said in a statement.
“A physical altercation involving spectators occurred in the stands during Connecticut State Community College Gateway’s commencement ceremony,” the statement read.
“CT State prioritizes the safety of its students and their guests and is committed to providing a secure environment at all college events.”
Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater spokesperson Andy Nunn claimed the arena had ample security and was well-protected, according to News 8.
“The event was staffed by venue ushers and security, CT State College Police, and contracted security, as well as the Bridgeport Police, who were positioned outside the amphitheater,” he said.
Bradley and Price were both charged with assault of a public safety officer and second-degree breach of peace. Simmons was charged with second-degree breach of peace.