SEASIDE PARK-A social media post for a beach party here caught officials off guard, especially after the situation took a violent turn on Saturday. Thousands came out for “Beachnik 18”, sparked by a social media post inviting thousands to bring speakers and beach balls to the small borough.
The incident occurred on Saturday and was downplayed by local officials who said the situation remained under control, but videos emerging from the event tell a much different story.
A peaceful beach party went on all day as beachgoers from across New Jersey enjoyed the sand and surf here at the Jersey Shore. Some who attended said those engaged in the fighting crashed the good times that were had during the day.
In an APP interview with Seaside Heights Police Chief Thomas Boyd, he described the situation on the ground as a mess with multiple fights breaking out.
https://twitter.com/i/status/1008218950721789952
The party continued without incident all day.
https://twitter.com/i/status/1008574235114196994
At dusk, things heated up and fights erupted.
https://www.facebook.com/willizfly.bankboy/videos/1761933487201500/
Partygoers who enjoyed the day in the sun lashed out against those who chose to fight.
https://twitter.com/TheGiftof_Gabb/status/1008418340208029698
https://www.facebook.com/gripstate/videos/1835444669810518/
Fights and arrests at beachnik 16 shot in Trenton 1 dead. Yeah I’m outta here.
— Frenchy (@_lordfrenchy) June 17, 2018
https://youtu.be/pN5aJ5YcSss
Police said several arrests were made, but the situation was eventually brought under control.
Look BeachNik Did Numbers . It Was All Good Vibes . Grown Men Started Fighting 🤷🏽♂️ I Cant Stop That But Atleast It Was Towards The End .
— Aug.28 (@iamdjbake) June 17, 2018