Stadium evacuated after fight in stands during West Charlotte High game

CHARLOTTE — A fight broke out in the stands during the second half of Friday’s Mallard Creek High School at West Charlotte High School football game. The new was first reported by our partners at The Charlotte Observer.

The stands on West Charlotte side suddenly cleared with 9:19 left in the third quarter with Mallard Creek leading 13-0, The Observer stated.

“The teams quickly went to the far end of the field, away from the locker rooms, as another apparent fight broke out near that area,” the paper reported.

After about a 15-minute delay, the teams returned to their sides of the field, and game officials decided to remove the fans before the game resumed.

At least one person was taken off the field on a stretcher, but West Charlotte’s principal said no injuries were reported.

“We were just told to get down, and we just saw a wave of people just running,” West Charlotte Dean of Students Vickie Ruff told The Observer. “I was sitting on the 50-yard line in the press box. We were told to get down and we got down ... I’ve never experienced anything like this.”

The game resumed at about 9:50 p.m.

In a message to families, West Charlotte’s principal said what happened Friday night is being reviewed.

“This is Principal Cook with an update about tonight’s West Charlotte and Mallard Creek Football game. This evening, at the stadium, a group of students was involved in an altercation, which raised concerns about a potential threat. As a result, some spectators began to leave the stands quickly. Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance, the decision was made to evacuate the stadium,” the statement reads. “Additional law enforcement was on-site to assist with the situation, and we are grateful for their presence. We are relieved that no injuries were reported, and everyone was able to exit the stadium safely. The situation is under review, and we will continue to prioritize the safety and security of our students, staff, and community members. We appreciate the cooperation of all those in attendance and will provide further updates as necessary. Thank you for your support of West Charlotte.”

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