Peel

Chaos at Caledon, Ont. high school football game: Pepper spray, weapons and hospitalizations reported

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An Ontario Provincial Police cruiser is pictured in this image in Ontario. (CTV News/Molly Frommer)

Police in Caledon are investigating what they describe as a “significant disturbance” at Humberview Secondary School after reports of pepper spray being used, several altercations, and students being taken to the hospital.

The incident took place around 8 p.m. Friday during a Friday Night Lights football game, part of the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

According to Caledon OPP, officers already on scene were alerted to a large gathering where pepper spray had been deployed among the crowd.

Emergency crews treated two people who were sprayed, while another youth was taken to the hospital with serious injuries following a physical altercation.

As tensions escalated, additional officers were called in to manage multiple incidents, including reports of alleged weapons and further fights in and around the school grounds.

One youth was detained after reportedly being found with a knife but was later released when police determined they were not involved in any of the altercations.

Due to safety concerns and the large number of attendees, the event was shut down with support from school officials.

Officials say school staff are cooperating fully with the investigation.

In accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act, no identifying information about those involved will be released.

Anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Caledon OPP at 1-888-310-1122, referencing #E251347092, or provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

The investigation remains ongoing.