INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (WOWO) Two adults were arrested and three juveniles were taken into custody following a large fight that broke out during Dowagiac Union High School’s graduation ceremony on Sunday, according to Dowagiac Police.

The Lead Off

• Two adults arrested and three juveniles detained after fight at graduation ceremony
• Police say the incident involved a large crowd and required assistance from multiple agencies
• A second related altercation later in the day led to additional arrests

Fight disrupts graduation ceremony

Police told WSBT that officers were called to Chris Taylor Field around 3 p.m. on Sunday after reports of a large physical altercation during Dowagiac Union High School’s graduation ceremony.

Authorities report that multiple individuals were involved in fighting near the bleachers, causing the ceremony to be temporarily paused.

Officials say several people fled the scene when police arrived, prompting officers to request assistance from nearby law enforcement agencies due to the size of the crowd involved.

Arrests made at the scene

Police took a 20-year-old man into custody at the graduation site. Officials say he was also found to have an outstanding warrant.

Three juveniles, ages 15, 16, and 17, were also detained in connection with the incident. They were later released to their parents and will be referred to juvenile court on charges.

Officials say a 7-year-old child received minor injuries during the fight. The child’s parents declined medical treatment at the scene.

Second related disturbance reported

Later the same day, police responded to a second altercation on Second Avenue that officials say was connected to the graduation incident.

During that response, a 21-year-old man was arrested and a juvenile was taken into custody. The juvenile was also released to a parent.

Police say both adult suspects face charges of assault and battery and disturbing the peace. Their names have not been released.

School district responds

Dowagiac Union Schools Superintendent Greg Blomgren released a statement acknowledging the incident and thanking law enforcement for their response.

Blomgren said the altercation temporarily delayed the graduation program but that school officials are working with police to gather information and ensure accountability.

He added that the district was grateful for families and staff who attended the ceremony and emphasized that the incident occurred during a day intended for celebrating students.

The Takeaway

• A large fight at Dowagiac Union High School’s graduation ceremony led to police intervention, multiple arrests, and a temporary delay of the event.
• Two adults and three juveniles were initially taken into custody, with additional arrests made later in a related disturbance.
• School officials and police say they are continuing to investigate the incident while working to determine accountability for those involved.