Man Storms Stage at National Speech Debate Tournament in Iowa, Students Evacuated

During the National Speech & Debate Tournament held in Des Moines, Iowa, a 22-year-old man named Jayden Michael Roccaforte stormed the stage during the Humorous Interpretation Finals, causing a brief evacuation of the venue. The incident prompted widespread fear, with attendees fleeing and some sustaining minor injuries in the chaos, although no weapons were found and no threats were made. Roccaforte was quickly subdued and arrested on charges of disorderly conduct and possession of a controlled substance. Students from multiple states, including Texas, Georgia, and Florida, were present at the tournament, with officials confirming all students were safe and accounted for. The event was temporarily suspended on Thursday but planned to resume with an adjusted schedule. Organizers and law enforcement assured the public that the situation was contained and that safety measures would be enhanced going forward.