Seaside Heights Sees 73 Arrests Amid Memorial Day Weekend Chaos

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. — A series of stabbings and fights led to the closure of the Seaside Heights boardwalk over Memorial Day weekend, with police making 73 arrests, including 21 minors. The unrest began early Friday and continued until Monday morning, as about 100,000 visitors flocked to the popular oceanfront area.

Detective Steve Korman of the Seaside Heights Police Department reported that officers arrested 52 adults and 21 juveniles during this 72-hour period. The escalating violence prompted Police Chief Thomas Boyd to shut down the boardwalk just after midnight on May 26 to ensure public safety.

According to Korman, three young men were stabbed near the boardwalk, but all refused to cooperate with police investigations, which complicated efforts to make additional arrests. The first stabbing occurred on May 24, leaving a 21-year-old man hospitalized, followed by two more stabbings on May 25 and May 26, where victims were also taken to the hospital.

Among those arrested was a 21-year-old male from nearby Beachwood. He faces several charges, including possession of a firearm and resisting arrest, after officers responded to a report of a fight.

Sarah Frailey, a bartender at EJ’s Tap House, described the situation as chaotic. “The last few days have been mayhem in this town. Kids were out of control. It’s like the ‘Jersey Shore’ show,” she stated.

Following last year’s disturbances that included multiple arrests, local officials had prepared for potential issues by increasing police presence and enforcing a curfew for minors from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Despite these measures, the crowds proved difficult to manage.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer commented on the police response, acknowledging the challenges but expressing gratitude for the safety maintained for most attendees. “While I am disappointed by the conduct of some of the people who came to visit Seaside Heights this weekend, we ensured the safety of the majority of our visitors and our locals,” he said.

Authorities are now focused on improving strategies for future holiday weekends, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining order and safety in Ocean County.