PALATKA, Fla. — Multiple fights broke out Wednesday night in the parking lot of Palatka Junior-Senior High School as students returned from an event, prompting a law enforcement response, officials said.
Deputies and other officers responded around 8:30 p.m. on March 25, 2026, after reports of fights involving students exiting buses from the Be Brave summit held at the St. Augustine Amphitheater.
Authorities said several fights were disrupted upon arrival, but additional altercations continued as large groups of students gathered in the parking lot.
Preliminary information indicates some of the incidents may have stemmed from conflicts that began at the event earlier in the evening.
No injuries were reported, and no charges have been filed at this time. Officials said school administration will handle disciplinary actions for those involved.
Authorities noted many students remained in the parking lot while waiting for rides, contributing to the large crowds.
Due to heightened tensions, additional deputies were assigned to the school the following day.