False report of a shooting causes temporary delay at Riverfront Park during 4th of July celebration

On July 4th, an altercation near the clocktower at Riverfront Park triggered a false shooting report that resulted in panic among attendees. Officers contacted a male involved in the altercation, finding him unarmed and unable to establish probable cause due to the absence of a victim. As officers worked to clarify the situation, rumors of an active shooter spread through the crowd, leading to people fleeing the area. The police quickly staged units throughout the park, confirming that no shots had been fired. An announcement instructing attendees to take cover exacerbated the confusion, creating a chaotic scene.

After ensuring public safety, a reverse 911 message reassured the community that there was no threat, allowing the celebration to resume. This incident underscores the importance of clear communication from authorities during emergencies. Community engagement and accurate information dissemination are crucial in preventing panic in similar situations.