Memphis grad sparks brawl by throwing diploma at ceremony
A graduation ceremony at Hamilton High School in Memphis, Tennessee, turned chaotic. When a senior threw his diploma at another student, he sparked an on-stage brawl. The incident, captured on video, unfolded as graduates were being celebrated at the Cannon Center.
The trouble began when the student allegedly flashed gang signs at a peer. A security guard noticed and escorted him off the stage. As he was leaving, he threw his diploma binder at the other student. Thus, igniting the fight.
Security quickly intervened, and the student who was hit leaped over seats to retaliate. Two other students joined in. As a result, escalating the situation. One student was pepper-sprayed as guards tried to regain control.
The ceremony paused briefly but resumed after order was restored. “We are not going to stop our graduation. We are going to continue because this is the Wildcat way,” a speaker announced.
Parents expressed frustration over the disruption. “How do you fight at a graduation? It’s a time for celebration,” said Quita White, whose son graduated that night.
All involved students received Juvenile Summons or Misdemeanor Citations and were released to their parents. An officer was injured, sustaining a bruise and possible foot fracture.
Despite the chaos, the remaining students received their diplomas, though concerns about youth violence in Memphis remain high.
Source: NY Post
Memphis grad sparks brawl by throwing diploma at ceremony
