NJ High School Bleachers Collapse, Injuring Four Students
A section of bleacher railing gave way at Bergen Catholic High School during a post-game celebration, sending students to the ground.
Four students sustained minor injuries after a section of bleacher railing collapsed at Bergen Catholic High School in Oradell, New Jersey, on Saturday. The incident occurred as students surged toward the field to celebrate a dramatic comeback victory by the school's football team, the Crusaders, who defeated Don Bosco Prep.
Video footage of the event appears to show the crowd moving towards the bleachers, causing a railing to give way. Oradell police stated that one student was treated at the scene for a leg injury, and no other serious injuries were reported.
In a statement, Bergen Catholic High School President Brian Mahoney affirmed the school's commitment to safety, noting that the bleachers undergo annual inspections. Following the incident, a second, more thorough inspection of the bleachers and surrounding structures will be conducted. "The safety and well-being of our students and community remain our highest priority," Mahoney said.
The school is scheduled to host Paramus Catholic the following weekend, with its subsequent two games slated to be played on the road.