A high school football game in Utica, New York, turned violent on Saturday when a security guard was shot while trying to quell a fight. The incident occurred around 4:10 p.m. outside the Proctor High School stadium, according to Sgt. Michael Curley.
The Utica Police Department reported that the brawl broke out just as the game between Proctor High School and Binghamton High School was ending. The fight took place on school property, just outside the football field. Two members of the Utica City School District Security staff tried to intervene and stop the fight.
During the altercation, at least two gunshots were fired, one of which hit a security guard in the back of the head. Following the shooting, the stadium was immediately put on lockdown. The injured security guard, whose identity has not been disclosed, was rushed to a local hospital. He is currently in a critical but stable condition.
The police department praised the bravery of the security officer and his colleagues who risked their lives to ensure the safety of the spectators and students. In a statement, the police department said, “We would be remiss if we did not acknowledge the heroism of this security officer and the others who put themselves in harm’s way to protect the spectators and students.”
The Utica Police Department informed the public about the shooting through a social media post, reassuring that all students present at the game were safe and accounted for. The department is currently reviewing surveillance footage and social media videos to gather more information about the incident and identify the suspect.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Utica Police Department at (315) 223-3556 or submit an anonymous tip online through Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers at www.mohawkvalleycrimestoppers.com.