Muhammad’s three TDs put Harlem in command against Auburn; game suspended when students storm from the stands

NOTE: This game was completed Saturday. Harlem won 40-6. Jahmani Muhammad finished the game with five touchdowns. Only parents and guardians of the players were allowed to return for the conclusion of the game. Students were not permitted in the stadium.

MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. (WTVO/WQRF) — The Rockford Auburn at Harlem NIC-10 football game Friday night had hearts racing and emotions on edge. Not because of the game action on the field, but because of what happened in the third quarter.

With four minutes to play in the quarter and Harlem leading 20-6, students from the Harlem student section stormed from the bleachers onto the track by the field. They sprinted toward the north endzone and beyond. Play was stopped. Many students and fans were panicked not knowing what to think or if their safety was in jeopardy.

Police officers throughout the area including Rockford, Roscoe, Rockton, and Loves Park along with officers from the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department raced to the school. Some students were placed in squad cars while they calmed down and spoke with officers. It’s not known if any of those students were taken into custody.

There have been reports that there was an altercation among some students on campus that might have led to other students sprinting out of the stands.

The game was suspended, likely to be completed Saturday. Senior running back Jahmani Muhammad had scored all three of Harlem’s touchdowns up to that point.

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