On September 23, 2021, around 10:50 AM, Mr. Graviano came over the PA system to call in a lockdown. Students initially shrugged it off, but teachers assured them that this was not a drill. As students frantically messaged classmates, video began circulating of an intruder jumping over the courtyard fence and rumors (later qualified as false) of possible gun possession. For a few moments, every extraneous sound was denoted a gunshot. The lockdown was eventually called off around 11:35. Parents rushed to pick up their kids, in lines that paralleled the lines on September 11th, 2001.

As Mr. Graviano recalls, even among 1,500 students, security guards immediately recognized the face of the intruder. The suspect, a Longwood High School graduate, had originally jumped the fence into the new courtyard with the intention of confronting a student at Newfield High School. The courtyard, secured by a gate, is an alternative for students who prefer to have lunch outdoors and where masks are not required. Security guards immediately apprehended the suspect and as he appeared to be aggressive and hiding something, security guards believed he may have been in possession of a gun. The man then jumped back over the fence and fled. Security guards continued to chase the man who then began fleeing into the surrounding neighborhood.

The Suffolk County Police Department was contacted, and nearby schools, including Selden Middle School, North Coleman Elementary School, and Jericho Elementary School were also placed on lockdown. The suspect was apprehended by law enforcement just north of 153 North Coleman Road in Centereach. Canine units continued searching the vicinity for further threats. It was revealed that the suspect had dropped his weapons, two knives, when he jumped over the fence. Hence, the intruder faces several serious charges, including possession of a weapon on school property.

All security guards were recognized by Suffolk County Legislator Nick Carrappa, who, in a statement to TBR News Media stated, "I am happy to recognize the efforts of these men; Michael Banks, Frank Crocitto, Matt Finelli, Emmanuel Rancy, Anthony Rivera, Russ Scott, and John Webber. Their keen efforts helped ensure the safety of students and staff, and were instrumental in assisting the police with the apprehension of the intruder. My gratitude goes to Newfield High School’s Principal, Scott Graviano and his heroic security guards for their dedication to public safety."