Last week, a high school basketball game at Half Hollow Hills High School descended into chaos after a fight broke out between players from Half Hollow Hills and Comsewogue.
A 36-year-old man has been charged with third-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child following his alleged involvement in the incident. According to Suffolk County Police and multiple news outlets, the altercation occurred late in the game when tensions between the two teams boiled over.
Video footage circulating online shows players from both teams pushing, shoving, and grabbing one another as the situation escalated on the court. What began as a confrontation between players quickly intensified when a spectator reportedly entered the fray. Authorities allege the man ran from the stands toward the on-court melee and struck a 15-year-old Comsewogue player during the brawl.
Police identified the suspect as Jeffery Vernot, 36, of Wheatley Heights. Reports indicate Vernot was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear before a judge on January 30 in connection with the incident. In the video, Vernot can be seen sprinting toward the group of players before appearing to make contact with a Comsewogue athlete, who was later observed stumbling on the court.
The fight occurred with just under one minute remaining in the game. Officials and school staff eventually intervened and were able to separate those involved after several minutes. Due to the severity of the incident and concerns for player safety, the game was officially called off before its conclusion.
School administrators and law enforcement officials continue to review the incident, and further disciplinary actions may follow. The altercation has sparked renewed discussion about spectator conduct at school sporting events and the importance of maintaining a safe environment for student-athletes, coaches, officials, and fans alike.