East Rutherford, NJ · December 28, 2025 — 10:42 AM ET
Local authorities confirmed a disturbing pre-game incident outside MetLife Stadium on Sunday, as East Rutherford police arrested a New York Jets fan for violently attacking two female Patriots supporters during a dispute in a crowded tailgate area ahead of the Jets vs. Patriots matchup.
According to the East Rutherford Police Department and multiple eyewitnesses, the altercation occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. in a tailgate lot near the stadium. The suspect — described by witnesses as a 33-year-old male — allegedly confronted two Patriots fans over a tailgate space and “territory” near their vehicle setup.
Witnesses told officers the man ripped down a Patriots flag, shoved one victim to the ground — causing knee and elbow abrasions — and then grabbed the second woman by the hair, slamming her head against a nearby cooler during the struggle. Nearby fans immediately intervened, restraining the suspect until police arrived within minutes.
The Jets fan was taken into custody at the scene and now faces multiple charges, including:
* Assault and battery resulting in injury
* Disorderly conduct
* Potential bias-motivated enhancement, as investigators review statements and footage suggesting rivalry-driven hostility may have escalated the attack
The victims — both Patriots supporters — were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to officials. The suspect is currently being held at a local facility on $7,500 bond, pending a preliminary hearing.
Footage of the confrontation — recorded by several bystanders — has already gone viral on social media, surpassing 1.5 million views on X under hashtags #JetsFanArrested and #TailgateFight.
In response, MetLife Stadium security increased patrols around all tailgate areas ahead of the December 28, 2025 home matchup, emphasizing a “zero tolerance” stance for fan violence.
Authorities urged attendees to report any aggressive behavior immediately as crowds continued to gather for the rivalry showdown.
