A high school football game between Buchtel and Firestone in Akron, Ohio, was stopped early Friday night after several fights broke out among juveniles near the stadium, according to Akron police.
The game was being played at Ellet Community Learning Center when police were called to the stadium at about 7:39 p.m. An officer who was working security reported that multiple fights were taking place during the matchup.
Police said the incidents happened off the field and did not involve players from either Buchtel High School or Firestone High School. However, the situation continued to develop as additional fights broke out among people in the crowd.
Police Respond to Multiple Fights
According to an Akron police spokesperson, several police units were needed to disperse a crowd of juveniles as the fights continued.
The police response came while the football game was underway. With multiple incidents occurring around the stadium, officials determined that allowing the event to continue could create additional safety concerns.
A 15 year old boy was arrested during the incident, police said. He faces allegations of disorderly conduct, obstructing official business and resisting arrest.
The teenager was taken to the Summit County Juvenile Detention Center following the arrest.
Police have not indicated that football players from either school were involved in the fights. The incidents were described as taking place away from the playing field.
Officials End Game Over Safety Concerns
School officials ultimately decided to end the game early because of concerns involving the safety of students, athletes, staff members and spectators.
Akron Public Schools acknowledged the incident in a statement and said safety remains the district’s priority. The district also said it was working with the appropriate authorities but did not provide additional details.
There appears to be some variation in descriptions of when the game was stopped. The initial report said the contest was called off during the third quarter, while an Akron Public Schools statement later described the decision as ending the game at halftime.
The Buchtel and Firestone football matchup therefore ended before the teams could complete the scheduled game.
The incident highlights the challenges that can arise at large high school sporting events when disturbances develop away from the playing field. Police intervention was required to separate the juveniles and restore order at the Akron stadium.
The investigation and any further action involving the juvenile remain with authorities. School officials have not released additional information about the incident or whether any further consequences will follow.
