GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Several juveniles are facing charges after a disturbance at a juvenile detention center escalated into a riot Saturday afternoon, police said.
Gainesville Police responded around 4:15 p.m. on March 28, 2026, to the facility following reports of a disturbance.
Authorities said the incident began when staff entered a housing pod to address a juvenile who had threatened self-harm. When the door was opened, multiple juveniles exited the pod and moved into other areas of the facility, escalating the situation.
During the disturbance, windows were broken, fire extinguishers were discharged, water fountains were torn from walls, and furniture was damaged. Officials estimate the total damage to be several thousand dollars.
Four juveniles were transported to Shands Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
At this time, three juveniles have been charged with Inciting a Riot, Escape, Felony Criminal Mischief, and Preventing the Extinguishment of a Fire.
The investigation remains ongoing.