RICHMOND, Va. — A graduation ceremony for John Marshall High School was disrupted Wednesday morning when a fight broke out at the VCU Siegel Center.
Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras said the disturbance began when “a member of the audience” attacked a graduate walking to receive their diploma.
Kamras praised Richmond Schools security staff, VCU Police and Richmond Police for their quick response, noting that “all the safety protocols… went as expected.”
Magnetometers were used at the entrance, clear bag policies were enforced, and “absolutely no weapons were found or ever in the building,” he said.
Major Nicole Dailey of VCU Police said more than 50 officers from both agencies responded, separating those involved and allowing the ceremony to continue.
She confirmed there were no injuries and said officers detained four individuals with pending charges. Dailey also reported several subsequent altercations outside the Siegel Center, which were quickly dispersed. Police are asking anyone with video to share it with Crime Stoppers or through VCU Live Safe.
Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards said his officers focused on securing the area and nearby parking decks to prevent access to firearms and ensure attendees could leave safely. He said 39 RPD members were involved and vowed visible, increased staffing for upcoming ceremonies. “We’re going to have a zero tolerance,” Edwards said. “Don’t bring your guns to these events, don’t take them in your cars, and if you do, we’ll be there to address it.”
Kamras echoed that message.
"Whatever acrimony, whatever concerns you have with anybody in the community—leave that at home or don't come to graduation," Kamras said.
Watch: Police address fight at John Marshall graduation ceremony
Despite the disruption, Kamras noted Principal Monica Glass Murray sang to her class, which earned a second consecutive 100% graduation rate — a milestone he celebrated by dyeing his hair blue. Students were released in small groups afterward as a safety precaution.
School Board Chair Shavonda Fernandez reminded the public that the day also honored the memory of Zion Terry, a John Marshall student who died earlier in the year.
“Today, or any day of graduation, is not the day to come in with any other spirit besides joy and excitement,” she said. “I want us to not define RPS or John Marshall by this incident, but be reminded that this is a day of celebration.”
Armstrong High School’s graduation was scheduled for 2:30 p.m., with two more ceremonies Thursday and three more Friday, all with enhanced security protocols.
This is a developing story. Email the CBS 6 Newsroom if you have additional information or video to share.
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