Lawsuit Filed After New Jersey High School Football Game Shooting Raises Questions Over Campus Safety Measures
A lawsuit has been filed by the parents of two teenagers who were shot during a high school football game in Passaic County, New Jersey, in August 2024, raising serious concerns about school security and event supervision. The legal action claims that school officials failed to take proper steps to protect students and visitors during the incident.
According to the details of the case, the shooting took place on August 30, 2024, at Passaic County Technical Institute in Wayne. The incident occurred shortly after a football game when a former student allegedly opened fire in a crowded area filled with students, families, and spectators. Authorities stated at the time that the suspect was 16 years old and had previously been expelled from the school.
Two teenagers, aged 15 and 16, were injured in the shooting. Both suffered non-fatal gunshot wounds and were taken to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson for treatment. While they survived, the lawsuit states that the injuries resulted in lasting physical and emotional trauma, including permanent scarring and psychological distress.
The complaint, filed on April 9 in Passaic County Superior Court, names multiple defendants including the school district, its board of education, and several current and former administrators. Those listed include former Chief School Administrator John Maiello, Principal Antonio Garcia, Athletic Director Nicolino Nese, and Security Coordinator Terry Smith.
The parents, through their legal representation, argue that the school failed to provide adequate supervision and security during a large public event, despite previous issues involving fights and disorderly behavior at athletic gatherings. The lawsuit further alleges that the expelled student was able to access the school campus without proper screening and remain on site long enough for intervention, which allegedly did not occur.
It is also claimed that school administrators were present near the scene during the shooting but did not take timely action to prevent or stop the violence. The complaint describes the incident as a preventable tragedy and argues that stronger safety measures could have reduced or avoided the harm caused.
The lawsuit also raises civil rights and negligence claims against the district and its officials. The parents are seeking both compensatory and punitive damages, along with legal costs and interest, citing the long-term impact on their children’s lives.
In response, the school district has stated that it has not yet been formally served with the complaint and therefore cannot fully comment on the allegations. However, district legal representatives emphasized that the administration continues to cooperate with law enforcement and security experts and remains committed to ensuring the safety of students, staff, and visitors.
The case adds to ongoing national discussions in the United States about school event security, access control, and the challenges schools face in preventing violence in open public gatherings such as sports events.
Sources
Passaic County Superior Court filing (case documents)
Passaic County Technical-Vocational School District statement
Local law enforcement statements issued at the time of the incident
