Pepper Spray Used to Stop Large Scale Fight on College Campus

Campus security at Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina and a private security firm (Alpha Omega) used pepper spray to break up a large scale incident involving about 30 students during a fraternity event in November.

Campus fraternities gathered at Williams Hall Gymnasium for a “probate show” which showcases new fraternity members. Typically held twice during the semester, the event usually involves good natured interaction between fraternities as they cheer on their members or oppose those from other fraternities.

The exact cause of the fight is unknown but is thought to have involved an exchange of insults. The situation quickly escalated until at one point it is estimated that up to 30 students were involved in the altercation.

Security intervened in a timely manner, using pepper spray to subdue the fighting students. A University spokeswoman stated that “numerous students” were exposed to the pepper spray, including those not involved in the fight, but there were no injuries reported.

After the main brawl was under control, several other fights erupted outside of the gym and were similarly managed by campus police and the private security firm hired to work the event. Using pepper spray in this situation prevented significant damage to property and reduced the risk of personal injuries.

Elizabeth City State University officials expressed sorrow for the discomfort that was experienced by both the students fighting and the innocent bystanders but acknowledged that the use of pepper spray was necessary to keep the fighting from escalating beyond their ability to contain the situation. Considering that no serious physical injuries occurred at the event despite such a large brawl, mild personal discomfort seems a reasonable trade.

Pepper spray has been successfully used as part of crowd management under such trying circumstances before. When used by properly trained individuals, it provides an effective, non-violent response to escalating disorder.