Seaside Heights Arrests 73, Reports 3 Stabbings Over Memorial Day Weekend

Over the Memorial Day weekend, Seaside Heights, New Jersey faced significant unrest with more than 70 arrests, including 21 minors, amid numerous fights and three stabbings on the boardwalk. The violence, which occurred over a 72-hour span, led to a temporary closure of the boardwalk by Police Chief Thomas Boyd as a precaution to ensure public safety. The three stabbing victims, aged between 18 and 22, were hospitalized but refused to cooperate with police, resulting in no arrests related to those incidents. Despite increased police presence, including additional officers and SWAT teams, the weekend saw chaotic scenes reminiscent of prior years, with crowds estimated at around 100,000 visitors. Among those arrested was a 21-year-old man charged with possession of a firearm and resisting arrest during a fight. Local residents expressed concern that such violence damages the town's reputation, although they noted that the atmosphere tends to improve following the holiday weekend.