Buckeye Elementary School Fight Leads to Four Arrests, Including Armed Man
The Buckeye elementary school fight that occurred outside Freedom Elementary on April 24, 2025, ended with four individuals arrested — one of whom was found carrying a handgun during school dismissal hours. The incident, which police say involved both minors and an adult, unfolded near the pickup area just before 4:00 p.m., drawing concern from parents, school staff, and law enforcement.
Armed Individual Detained After Buckeye Elementary School Fight
According to the Buckeye Police Department, 19-year-old Iriel Rivera was taken into custody after allegedly exposing a firearm tucked into his waistband during the altercation. Alongside Rivera, three teenagers — a 15-year-old girl, a 17-year-old girl, and a 17-year-old boy — were also arrested following the Buckeye elementary school fight. Officers responded within minutes of multiple 911 calls reporting a disturbance involving an armed person at Freedom Elementary School, located near Dean Road and Sundance Parkway South.
Rivera is facing multiple weapons charges. The three minors were charged with disorderly conduct and interference with an educational institution, both of which are serious offenses when committed on or near school grounds.
No Shots Fired, But Questions Remain
Thankfully, no injuries were reported and the gun was never drawn. However, the presence of a firearm during an after-school incident has sparked concern across the Buckeye community. As of this writing, it remains unclear what started the fight. Police stated that the individuals involved knew each other and were at the school to pick up family members.
This Buckeye elementary school fight is still under active investigation, and authorities have not released information regarding whether the weapon was loaded or if threats were made prior to police arrival. The gun has been seized for further analysis as part of the case.
Freedom Elementary Responds to On-Campus Violence
While Freedom Elementary has not issued an official statement, school staff acted quickly to move students away from the area as law enforcement responded. The school was not placed on lockdown, but dismissal was briefly delayed due to the presence of officers and ongoing arrests.
The Liberty Elementary School District has so far remained quiet, but community members are calling for more transparency and improved security measures during school transitions.
Many Buckeye parents have expressed frustration online. They are stating that this Buckeye elementary school fight could have escalated into something far worse. Luckily police responded so quickly. Others have asked whether security officers or resource staff should be stationed at pickup zones going forward.
Community Vigilance Helped Prevent Escalation
In a statement, the Buckeye Police Department credited fast-acting citizens for containing the threat. “This was a very chaotic scene that was quickly contained. I give thanks to a community that is vigilant and called 911,” police said Thursday morning. The response highlights the importance of quick reporting and community awareness, particularly during vulnerable times like school dismissal.
Officers were on scene within minutes and detained all four individuals without use of force. The presence of a firearm, however, has raised flags in a city already grappling with rising concerns over youth-related incidents.
Buckeye Elementary School Fight Adds to Growing List of Youth Incidents
The Buckeye elementary school fight is part of a broader pattern developing across Maricopa County. Involving juvenile disturbances and weapons-related incidents near schools. While Freedom Elementary itself has no prior major incidents, this event underscores the growing need for more proactive safety measures. And mental health support within local schools.
The city has experienced population growth over the last several years, leading to increased enrollment and traffic around school zones. With higher density comes greater pressure on schools and public safety services.
Buckeye PD has confirmed that surveillance footage and witness statements are being reviewed. Additional charges may be filed depending on the results of the investigation. And the role each individual played in the incident.
How to Stay Informed and Get Involved
Anyone with information related to the fight is encouraged to contact the Buckeye Police Department’s non-emergency line. The department has also urged parents to speak with their children about conflict resolution and safe behavior during pickup times.
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For the original reports on this story, see coverage at ABC15.