Chaotic scene unfolds at Midlands football game after off-field incident
Friday night’s football game between Ridge View and Westwood high schools was suspended in the third quarter when a fight in the stands spooked the crowd and sent fans and players rushing for the exits.
Early media reports indicated that gunshots might have been heard, but there were no shots fired, according to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
“No shots fired at Ridgeview vs Westwood football game,” the agency posted to Twitter. “RCSD is the official and accurate reporting source — Sheriff Leon Lott.”
WACH Fox was broadcasting the game and captured the scene shortly after 9 p.m., with commentators say on air that they believed they heard gunshots. An eyewitness report to The State said there was panic in the stands with fans attempting to flee in multiple directions, a scene that was captured by the TV broadcast.
“RVH vs WHS game has been delayed due to a fight involving spectators,” according to a statement from Richland 2 spokesperson Libby Roof. “Reports of shots fired were not accurate. No shots were fired. The commotion caused people to panic and scatter ... The individuals involved in the fight have been removed from the scene.”
Around 10 p.m. Friday, WACH Fox reporter Mike Uva posted this to Twitter: “Westwood - Ridge View has been delayed. I’ve been told a fight broke out off the field & someone yelled gun leading fans and players ran from the bleacher & field but at this time, no gun shots, nor a sight of a gun have been confirmed.”
Game play resumed after 10 p.m. with Ridge View leading 26-6. It was the Blazers’ debut game in their newly built home football stadium.
The Blazers went on to win the game, 40-20, in front of the sellout crowd. Ridge View quarterback Andre Washington threw for four touchdowns, two to Chase Smith, and ran for another in the game.
“I think the energy and effort was there and I was pleased for the most part,” Ridge View coach Derek Howard told reporters after the game. “I’m ready to look at the film and see how we can get ready to get better in week two.”
This story was originally published August 20, 2021 at 10:17 PM.
