The lobbies of Grant Hall are now open after being closed due to a rash of fights and other disruptions.

Michael Stang, executive director of Housing and Dining, said he consulted hall staff and supervisory staff when he made the decision to close the lobbies last week. The lobbies are now open, Stang said, which was confirmed by the front desks of Grant.

“It was closed because there were some disruptions in the lobby,” Stang said. He also said some of those disruptions were fights.

Many students believe that fights in and near the residence hall were the reason for the closing.

Freshman undecided major Elizabeth Hercher said she heard about a fight from a friend who had witnessed it.

“There was a girl beating on another girl on a bench between the vending machines in the lobby,” Herch said, who lives in Grant South along with her friend. “A group of guys came in and tried to break up the girls which only escalated the fight. My friend said it was horrible, and there was weave everywhere.”

According to residents, there has been more than one fight in the lobby.

“This is the second time that there has been a fight in the South lobby,” said Kaiana Wilson, freshman business management major and a Grant South resident.

Lt. Todd Henert of the University Police said the UP had no involvement in closing the Grant lobbies. That decision, he said, was left up to Housing and Dining.

“There have been fights in and around Grant, particularly in the lobby areas,” Henert said, adding that those involved were either arrested or referred to Judicial Affairs.

Six days ago, a video was posted on YouTube of a fight taking place in what is labeled in the title as ‘Grant lobby northern.’ The video shows two women hitting each other as a group of people watch them. Throughout the 45-second video, bystanders appeared to try to separate them. What seems to be clumps of hair can been seen on the floor.

It is unknown where and when the fight took place. According to the site, it was posted Jan. 21. The Northern Star contacted the video’s poster, but received no response as of press time.

Editor’s Note: Campus Editor John Ranallo contributed to this article.

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