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

A false report of an active shooter caused chaos at Riverfront Park during the July 4th celebration. The incident began shortly after 10 PM when officers responded to an altercation near the clocktower, where a male was detained but found unarmed, with no victim emerging to report a crime. As officers investigated, misinformation circulated, leading to a panic as attendees fled the area. Authorities found no evidence of gunfire or any threat to public safety. To reassure the community, a reverse 911 text was sent out, allowing people to return and the celebration to continue.

This event showcases the complexities of maintaining order during large public gatherings, especially when misinformation spreads rapidly. The Spokane Police Department had officers stationed throughout the park to monitor the situation closely. Such incidents can strain police resources and impact community trust in public safety measures.