College basketball fans across Michigan set fire to couches and hay bales in wild celebrations after the state won its first national basketball title in 37 years.
Crews were forced to put out 40 blazes in Ann Arbor on Monday night and the chaos saw two people arrested, MLive reported.
Wolverines fans poured into the streets and set off fireworks after the team defeated the UConn Huskies 69-63 in Indianapolis, clinching the state’s first title since 1989.
Fire crews were seen extinguishing burning couches, video from Fox2 shows.
One person was arrested for arson, and another for disorderly conduct, Chris Page, an Ann Arbor police spokesperson, told MLive.
Rowdy fans also damaged street signs and climbed trees.
Andre Anderson, the Ann Arbor police chief, warned fans about their conduct before the final.
“My message as your police chief is to enjoy the historic matchup, and be mindful of disruptive behavior, public intoxication, and property damage,” he said.
Michigan reached the final of the NCAA tournament after defeating Arizona by a margin of 91 to 73 on Saturday.
Cops were already on high alert prior to the Final Four matchup.
Fans were warned not to walk around with open cans of alcohol on public streets, and police told those intent on brawling to stay away from Ann Arbor.
“Sometimes we get sporadic fights that break out for whatever reason, but we have a specific plan to address those,” Sgt. Jim Anuszkiewicz, said.
“So please, if you’re going to do those kinds of activities, don’t come to downtown Ann Arbor.”
