Fight at Harrisburg fireworks show throws crowd into chaos
HARRISBURG, Pa. — UPDATE | Harrisburg City officials addressed the chaos from the Fourth of July Celebration at Riverfront Park Tuesday.
Harrisburg Police Commissioner Thomas Carter said a fight broke out around 9:30 Monday night on Walnut Street. He said thousands of community members were waiting for the fireworks show to begin, after a delay due to the Senators baseball game. Carter said the fight was between two juveniles, one of which was arrested.
However, he said around the same time, there were firecrackers that were set off. He also said someone in the crowd yelled there was a gun, causing panic.
“The crowd just panicked and everyone just started running off in every direction,” Carter said.
Carter said a shooting did not take place at the event and said Harrisburg Police responded to the incident quickly.
In the chaos, numerous children were separated from their families.
“First off I want to apologize to the public and certainly to the surrounding community, residents who participated in our fireworks event,” said Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams. “I am saddened by what happened last night, it was chaotic and of course, I could not find three of my grandkids for 15 minutes, so you know I was panicked as well.”
Chairs, strollers, and other personal belongings were left behind. Individuals who lost items can be picked up at the Reservoir Park Mansion.
“We do have a crisis intervention plan in place and I want to ensure the public that it is safe to come to the events in the city of Harrisburg. We will not tolerate juveniles coming into the city and causing chaos like that,” Williams said.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE | A false alarm causing chaos in Harrisburg during 4th of July fireworks.
People were seen running through the streets during the fireworks show after rumors of gunfire spread quickly during the celebration.
Harrisburg Police, however, confirmed there were no shots fired.
Authorities say a fight broke out and one juvenile was arrested.
A City of Harrisburg spokesman said the fight happened near Walnut and Front streets around 9:30 p.m.
Fans at the Harrisburg Senators game told CBS 21 News that they were asked to stay in the stadium an extra 15 minutes till they were cleared to leave.
Harrisburg Fire Chief Brian Enterline says the gunfire appears to have been a false alarm, adding that the fireworks were confused as gunfire.
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