3 arrested after gunfire erupts at State Fair Meadowlands in East Rutherford

EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (WABC) -- There is extra security on hand at the State Fair Meadowlands after gunfire rang out on the first night.

The gunfire sent fairgoers running around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday night in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Fortunately, no one was shot.

Multiple suspects were taken into custody by New Jersey State Police troopers, and the investigation is ongoing.

The fair was 30 minutes from closing for the night when witnesses reported hearing at least three gunshots fired.

Immediately, likely hundreds of people still at the fair began running away from the area where the shots were heard.

State troopers, already stationed at the event, began funneling fairgoers through one exit as they searched for a gunman and weapon.

Officers said they located two male suspects physically assaulting a victim, and they were placed under arrest. Further investigation led to the arrest of a third suspect.

The victim was taken to Meadowlands Hospital with non life threatening injuries and was not shot. No other persons were struck by the gunfire.

The suspects were identified as 33-year-old Matthew Smart, 24-year-old Lamir Bradley and 23-year-old Robert Terry, all of Jersey City. They are charged with aggravated assault, while Terry also faces charges of unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful person and obstruction.

"We have increased personnel and have enhanced our security measures following last nights incident," state trooper Alejandro Goez said.

Thursday marked the first night of the State Fair Meadowlands, held annually in the Meadowlands parking lot. It runs until July 9.