A college graduation ceremony in Connecticut spiraled into turmoil after a violent altercation allegedly involving two families broke out in the stands, prompting police intervention and a temporary halt to the proceedings.
Incident Overview
Three individuals were taken into custody following the melee at Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater during the commencement ceremony for Connecticut State Community College Gateway, according to Bridgeport police. Officers responded to reports of a large fight at the venue around 6:15 p.m. on Thursday.
Details of the Altercation
Authorities stated that the conflict involved two unrelated families, requiring officers to physically separate individuals and de-escalate the situation. Police arrested Tyvonna Bradley, 28, of New Haven, and Erika Price, 35, of New York, on charges of assault of a public safety officer and second-degree breach of peace. Takira Simmons, 34, of New York, was charged with second-degree breach of peace. The cause of the fight has not been immediately disclosed.
Witness Accounts
Video footage shared on social media by attendee Simone Hazard captured the chaotic scene, with attendees screaming and chairs allegedly thrown through the crowd. In the clip, a man can be heard shouting, 'Aw man, no. Put that chair down!' Victor Ferreira, a Bridgeport resident who witnessed the melee, told News12: 'Everybody was acting like animals. Throwing chairs and throwing stuff at each other.' Another witness, Lambert Shell, compared the scene to professional wrestling, remarking, 'I used to watch a lot of WWE as a kid. This video is insane.'
Response from Officials
School officials confirmed that the commencement ceremony was briefly paused while officers removed those involved before resuming. In a statement, Connecticut State Community College Gateway said: 'A physical altercation involving spectators occurred in the stands during CT State Gateway’s commencement ceremony. CT State prioritizes the safety of its students and their guests and is committed to providing a secure environment at all college events.'
Criticism and Defense of Security
One parent criticized the venue's security response, claiming staff failed to act quickly enough as violence escalated. 'I was really appalled and exasperated at the lack of response when a violent situation broke out,' the unidentified parent told WTNH. 'It just seems unbelievable that an arena that size would not have a protocol and security with all eyes on the situation.' Andy Nunn, general manager of the amphitheater, defended the security measures, stating: '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.'
Attendee Reactions
Angie Pichardo of Bridgeport expressed disappointment that the violence overshadowed the celebration for graduates. 'It’s a graduation. It’s supposed to be a celebration, and people should be celebrating the kids,' she told News12.
