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The large group was dropped off by several vehicles on the outskirts of Knight Park on Saturday, Oct. 19, the Collingswood Police Department said in a Facebook post. The teens and young adults started fighting each other, ran recklessly through the crowd, and cut in line for the Haunted Hayride.
Officers at the event broke up the unruly teens and other Camden County police departments were called in to help.
"To ensure the safety of those in attendance, the decision was made to shut down the hayride and manage the crowds in a safe manner," the department said. "Together, the Collingswood Police Department, event organizers, and mutual aid police agencies managed to safely escort families away from the chaos while simultaneously addressing and dispersing the individuals involved in the altercations."
While police responded to the hayride incident, officers received a call of about 50-70 teens stealing items and causing a disturbance at the Wawa on Haddon Avenue. The convenience store was closed to prevent any more damage or theft.
Officers at Knight Park also asked for more help responding to a group of about 80 teens fighting at homes along Browning Road. As police tried to break up this disturbance, some teens punched, kicked, and pushed past officers.
Some teens ran away from the fight scene by running through nearby backyards. Police eventually dispersed the crowd and restored peace.
No arrests have been made as of press time and the incidents remained under investigation.
"Unfortunately, this is not the first incident of its kind in Camden County, but Collingswood police were able to manage this incident, which spanned several locations in town while keeping everyone safe," the department said. "In the end, quick and decisive action taken by the department and event organizers helped ensure that everyone left the event safely. Preparations have been in place for public events over the last several months and we have been able to avoid these issues."
The borough said it will review plans for future public events to avoid more chaotic scenes.
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