India, May 23 -- In a moment that has captured hearts across social media, a University at Buffalo graduate ran across the commencement stage with his young son in his arms, defying university rules and prompting police intervention.

Jean Paul Al Arab, who completed his degree in criminology, made the bold move at the university's Alumni Arena on Sunday. The father had promised his son they would collect his diploma together, a vow he kept despite officials warning him the child could not walk with him due to safety concerns.

"I ran, that's what I did. I had to. I promised him I was gonna walk with him on the stage," Al Arab told WGRZ.

The moment occurred after all graduates had been called. Al Arab, holding his infant son who was dres...