Seaside Heights, NJ experienced a tumultuous Memorial Day weekend, marked by three separate stabbings and over 70 arrests amidst a massive influx of tourists. Approximately 100,000 visitors flocked to the popular shore town, prompting police actions aimed at maintaining order.
On Saturday evening, a 21-year-old man was stabbed in the back on Webster Avenue. He was treated at the scene by Tri-Boro First Aid Squad before being transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where he was subsequently flown to a trauma center. Notably, he chose not to provide further information to investigators. The following evening, another incident occurred where a 22-year-old man was stabbed in the hip at the intersection of Sherman Avenue and Ocean Terrace. Like the first victim, he was also taken to the hospital and declined to assist law enforcement with the investigation.
As the situation escalated, Seaside Heights Police Chief Thomas Boyd made the decision to shut down the boardwalk early Monday morning to mitigate further disturbances. During this time, an 18-year-old man was stabbed in the thigh. This victim was also transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center and did not cooperate with police inquiries.
Additionally, an unrelated incident on Sunday involved a pedestrian who was struck and required transport to a trauma facility, though this took place in Seaside Park, not Seaside Heights.
In a related development, during the chaos surrounding the boardwalk closure, police responded to a reported fight at Grant Avenue and Ocean Terrace, resulting in the arrest of 21-year-old Byron Czaplicki of Beachwood. He faces multiple charges, including possession of a firearm and resisting arrest.
Despite the violent incidents, the local authorities are taking steps to ensure safety for the community and visitors, reinforcing the need for vigilance during busy holiday weekends. Moving forward, the hope is that such measures will foster a safer environment in popular tourist areas.