Football Suspended At Gaithersburg, Northwest High Schools After Massive Brawl

GAITHERSBURG, MD — Montgomery County school officials have temporarily suspended the football programs at Gaithersburg and Germantown's Northwest high schools after a brawl during Friday night's game left a police officer and school staff member with injuries.

Shortly before 8:25 p.m., Gaithersburg and Montgomery County police were called to the high school at 101 Education Blvd. for a report of a fight.

A witness told WTOP the fight began when players from both teams started fighting each other on the field. Coaches from both teams tried to stop the brawl, but ultimately ended up fighting each other, WTOP reported.

The remainder of the game was canceled, according to NBC Washington. As everyone left, another fight broke out outside the stadium.

A school staff member suffered a non-life threatening injury, according to Gaithersburg police. A police officer was also assaulted but did not require medical care. Another person was treated for cuts, police said.

Police said "a few individuals" were taken into custody and will be charged accordingly. Police did not release the names of those arrested.

In a statement released Saturday, officials with Montgomery County Public Schools condemned what they called "abhorrent and unacceptable behavior." In the statement, officials said the football programs at both schools would be temporarily suspended to aid police in their investigation.

Officials said the district will move swiftly to create and implement enhanced safety at athletic events.

"The district will pursue disciplinary actions against any individuals who are found to have participated in this large altercation, while working to bring communities together around the importance of upholding safe and respectful environments," district officials said in a statement.