Police arrest two people after Michigan title win as fans light fires and streets in Ann Arbor turn chaotic overnight (Image via Getty)
Michigan’s big March Madness win turned into a wild night in Ann Arbor. What started as happy celebrations quickly went out of control. Fans poured into the streets after the final whistle, but things took a strange turn when fires began popping up across the city.
According to MLive, fire crews had to respond again and again as more than 40 fires broke out overnight. People were seen burning furniture and even hay bales. Police stepped in as the situation got worse, and two people were arrested. One faced serious charges including arson, while the other was held for disorderly conduct and assaulting an officer.The celebration followed Michigan’s 69–63 win over UConn in the national championship game in Indianapolis.
It was a huge moment for the Wolverines, who had not won the title since 1989. But instead of a calm celebration, the night turned loud, messy, and risky in many parts of the city.
Dusty May leads Michigan Wolverines past UConn as Elliot Cadeau shines in championship win
Head coach Dusty May delivered a title in just his second season, which made the moment even more special for Michigan fans. The team held off a strong push from UConn to seal a 69–63 victory. Elliot Cadeau played a key role in the win. He scored 19 points and added two assists and three rebounds in 30 minutes.
His performance helped Michigan stay ahead during tense moments late in the game.The win ended a long wait for the program and gave fans a reason to celebrate. Across Ann Arbor, cheers, car horns, and fireworks filled the air as people gathered on South University Avenue and nearby streets. Many climbed poles, trees, and fences, while some damaged street signs during the excitement.
Dave Portnoy and Barack Obama react as Michigan fans celebrate wildly and police make arrests
Among those celebrating was Dave Portnoy, a well-known Michigan supporter.
He shared videos online throughout the game and after the win. In one post, he said, “This school… I tried to tell people! It doesn’t matter what the sport is. Basketball, football, it’s the best sports program in the country!” He also praised UConn for their fight, adding, “UConn played their hearts out, they wouldn’t go away. But not against Michigan.
” After the game, he joked with friends who supported UConn during video calls he shared online.Former US President Barack Obama also reacted to the win. He wrote, “Congratulations to Coach Dusty May, Elliot Cadeau, and Michigan basketball on winning their first title since 1989! This team dominated the tournament from start to finish. Well deserved. Go Blue!”While the team’s success brought joy, the night also kept emergency crews busy. By around 1:30 a.m., firefighters had already handled dozens of fires across the city. What should have been a proud and safe celebration quickly became something much harder to control.
