Rowdy Spring Break Crowds Spark Safety Concerns in Fort Lauderdale

Spring break in Fort Lauderdale is already getting chaotic, with beachgoers engaging in risky activities, including boxing matches.

Joshua Pettus captured video of people fighting on the sand, organized by someone taking crypto bets. “Why aren’t they playing football? Something that is not going to get people injured,” he said. Police quickly broke up the fight.

“It was very unsafe,” Pettus added. “It’s not welcomed here because other people are on the beach, and that could have gotten really bad.”

The Fort Lauderdale Police Department confirmed breaking up two incidents but denied reports of betting. “This type of behavior will not be tolerated,” their statement read. Officers are patrolling in full force to ensure a safe environment.

Meanwhile, local non-profit The Robin Foundation is taking action against another spring break danger—drug overdoses. Volunteers are distributing Narcan, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, to spring breakers.

“We felt we had to do something,” said Chris Cavallo, who lost loved ones to overdoses. His group is handing out Narcan in Fort Lauderdale every other weekend.

Three years ago, multiple spring breakers overdosed on fentanyl-laced cocaine in Wilton Manors. Authorities later arrested the dealer responsible.

To maintain order, Fort Lauderdale has banned alcohol, coolers, tents, and loud music in high-traffic beach areas through April 12. Police presence has increased, with daily beach cleanups and night patrols. Miami Beach is also enforcing strict rules, including DUI checkpoints, $100 parking fees, and road closures.

Pettus hopes the chaos settles down. “We want spring breakers to come, have fun, and support businesses—but responsibly and without violence.”