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2d ago

Memorial Day Violence in Seaside Heights Prompts 73 Arrests and Boardwalk Shutdown

Officials are reviewing law enforcement strategies to bolster security at upcoming holiday weekends.

Amusement park rides are at Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, New Jersey, on Tuesday, August 20, 2024.
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People walk on the boardwalk in Seaside Heights, New Jersey on May 24, 2020, during the Memorial Day weekend holiday. Beaches are being reopened in some coastal areas, often with bathers required to observe social distancing. The pandemic has hammered the American economy and led to a fierce debate over virus restrictions, even as COVID-19 numbers continue rising in parts of the US -- the worst-hit country in the world, with 1.6 million infections and more than 96,000 deaths. (Photo by Kena Betancur / AFP) (Photo by KENA BETANCUR/AFP via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Authorities arrested 73 people—52 adults and 21 juveniles—between Friday morning and Monday as three nonfatal stabbings and multiple fights broke out.
  • Police Chief Thomas Boyd temporarily closed the two-mile boardwalk after a third stabbing just after midnight Monday to ensure public safety.
  • An estimated 100,000 visitors descended on Seaside Heights, leading to the deployment of an additional 100 officers to manage holiday crowds.
  • Detective Steve Korman reported that all three stabbing victims survived and declined to cooperate with further investigation.
  • Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer praised the coordinated response and pledged collaboration with town officials to improve planning for future holiday weekends.