Riot in Secaucus: Over 100 Vehicles Take Over Intersection, Police Attacked with Fireworks

Secaucus, NJ — August 31, 2025

In the early hours of Saturday morning, the Secaucus Police Department responded to what quickly escalated into a riot at the intersection of Secaucus Road and County Avenue. According to an official press release, at approximately 2:31 a.m. on August 30, more than 100 vehicles converged on the area, driving recklessly, performing dangerous stunts such as donuts, and drawing a large crowd of onlookers who recorded the chaos on their phones.

When Secaucus police officers arrived, they were immediately surrounded by over 50 individuals. Some members of the crowd climbed onto marked patrol units, causing damage, while others launched fireworks directly at the officers and under their vehicles, using them as incendiary devices.

Multiple Agencies Responded in Mutual Aid

Given the scale of the unrest, Secaucus officers called for mutual aid. Law enforcement agencies from Weehawken, North Bergen, Hoboken, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, East Rutherford, and Rutherford quickly mobilized to assist in dispersing the crowd and restoring order. Officials reported that despite the hostility directed at them, officers displayed restraint and professionalism, and no injuries were reported among law enforcement personnel.

Chief Dennis Miller of the Secaucus Police Department issued a strong statement following the incident:

“Our officers came under attack last night and I will not tolerate this unrest. I will be dedicating resources from our Traffic Bureau, Detective Division, Patrol Division, and Intelligence Section to assemble a Task Force to identify the individuals responsible for this riotous behavior and bring them to justice. Secaucus is not going to be the place where these criminals operate with impunity.”

Absence of Union City Police Raises Questions

Notably, among the nearby municipalities, Union City Police Department — geographically one of the closest to Secaucus — did not respond to the call for assistance. While multiple Hudson County towns mobilized resources to support Secaucus officers under attack, Union City’s absence has already sparked criticism about leadership and preparedness within the department. Critics argue that failing to provide mutual aid in moments of crisis undermines regional cooperation and public safety. Sources within the department contacted Hudson County Truth Media and reported the request for assistance was transmitted by Secaucus officers and dispatchers over the NJ Statewide Police Emergency Network (SPEN 1). This channel is used for state wide police dispatch communications for such incidents and mutual aid requests. The multiple requests for assistance were left ignored by the Union City Police Chief Anthony Facchini and their command Captains.

New Jersey’s Republican Gubernatorial Candidate, Jack Ciattarelli, wasn’t shy to make a comment in support of law enforcement. The Democratic nominee remains silent.

Ongoing Investigation

The Secaucus Police Department has announced the creation of a dedicated Task Force to identify individuals involved in the takeover and violent acts. Anyone with information or video footage that could assist investigators is urged to contact the department’s anonymous tip line at (201) 330-2049 or email spdtips@secaucusnjpolice.gov.

As of now, no arrests have been confirmed, but Secaucus officials have vowed to ensure accountability for the widespread lawlessness that erupted early Saturday morning.