BRANFORD — A massive brawl involving approximately seventy high school students erupted yesterday at around 2:30 p.m. in the parking lot of Dunkin Donuts at 207 East Main Street, leading to multiple arrests and injuries among police officers.
The Branford Police Department responded to reports of a fight and arrived to find active altercations among juvenile females outside, with additional students gathered inside the store.
As officers attempted to disperse the crowd, several juveniles resisted leaving and continued causing disruptions.
A struggle ensued when officers began escorting the crowd off the premises, with some juvenile males challenging and fighting the responding officers.
One officer was pushed into the vestibule window during the altercation, shattering the glass.
Despite deploying a taser, one juvenile continued to fight and was eventually taken into custody.
He was treated at a local hospital as per department policy.
Nine individuals were arrested on charges including Breach of Peace, Assault 3rd, Criminal Mischief, Interfering with Officers, and Assault on Police Officers.
Four were released to their parents at the scene, while the other five were processed and later released to guardians.
While awaiting processing, two juveniles remained aggressive, damaging a holding cell bench and spitting at cell cameras, with one being sent for a mental health evaluation at a local hospital.
Several officers sustained injuries during the incident.
The department has issued Juvenile Summons to those involved, with charges ranging from Breach of Peace and Interfering with Police to Assault on Police Officer and Threatening.
Additionally, 18-year-old Jayde Gary was charged with Breach of Peace 2nd and Assault 3rd.
The police department stated that videos circulating online do not fully capture the events or the threats made to officers.
They are unable to release body camera footage due to state statutes on juvenile records.
In coordination with Branford Schools, the police continue to investigate the incident and more arrests may be pending.
