Teenagers Cause Disorder in Long Branch, New Jersey

New Jersey authorities made multiple arrests following a large gathering of teenagers that disrupted a coastal town. The event took place in Long Branch, specifically at Pier Village, a popular oceanfront area known for its rental units and hotels. Police responded to reports of brawls, vandalism, and general disorder on the boardwalk.

Footage recorded by bystanders displayed a substantial police presence, with officers equipped with riot shields managing the crowd. Groups of young people moved through the streets as officers worked to disperse them.

Long Branch police arrested six individuals on charges related to the disturbance. The arrested included one 19-year-old, one 20-year-old woman, and three minors, all charged with disorderly conduct. Another teenager faced arrest for evading police.

Authorities anticipate further arrests due to separate assaults reported in the area, one on Centennial Drive and another near the train station. Additionally, police are investigating a potential car theft linked to the gathering. Nearly 140 law enforcement officers participated in the operation.

“The City of Long Branch takes these events seriously and will not tolerate conduct that endangers residents, visitors, business owners, or our public safety personnel,” stated Public Safety Director Charles Shirley Jr.

In response to the incident, the city enforced an emergency curfew beginning at 8 p.m., with streets cleared by 9:15 p.m. Long Branch police, aided by officers from surrounding areas, managed the situation to restore order.

Local resident Jason DeSantis expressed frustration over the event’s impact on the community. “You just heard the sirens, 5:30, 6 o’clock, just continually more and more and more people coming in,” he reported. He described local businesses and beaches as significantly affected.

The event, allegedly organized on social media as part of a “senior skip day,” caught the attention of nearby communities. With the Memorial Day weekend approaching, officials in towns like Seaside Heights are taking precautions, including coordinating with federal authorities to manage potential crowds.

Fox News Digital requested comments from the Long Branch Police Department. Reporter Julia Bonavita, who covers U.S. news for Fox News Digital, contributed to the story.