8 arrests, 37 injured as Nova Nation celebrates NCAA victory
BRYN MAWR, Pa. (WPVI) -- The thrilling finish to the NCAA National Championship game sent fans on Villanova's campus into a frenzy, and the party lasted well into Tuesday morning.
Police estimate 10,000-15,000 fans poured onto Lancaster Avenue after the game, and 270 police officers were on hand to keep things from getting out of control.
The security effort was led by Radnor Township Police, who say Villanova students should be proud. They were well behaved, and there were only a few incidents.
PHOTOS: Nova Nation celebrates Villanova's NCAA Championship title
Radnor Police arrested eight people for mostly minor offenses.
Radnor Police Lt. Chris Flanagan explains, "There were some small fires, some shrubbery that was removed, two assaults, one DUI during the incident and a couple of things thrown at a fire truck."
Sgt. George Smith of Radnor Police tells us, "With Villanova winning, that made it even better, because dealing with people that are celebrating is a lot better than dealing with people who are disappointed."
VIDEO: Nova Nation storms out of The Pavilion
A more eye-opening number may be the 37 injured. But police say most of those were treated on scene, as the university set up its own triage.
Students say the celebration was a once in a lifetime opportunity. And while it was cold early Tuesday morning, it was a moment they'll never forget.
VIDEO: Students light fire during Nova Nation celebration
VIDEO: Nova Nation floods Lancaster Avenue
