Vancouver Police made multiple arrests and have launched a criminal investigation after violence erupted when a concert was abruptly cancelled last night at the PNE Amphitheatre.
Fights broke out inside and outside the venue, and significant property damage occurred when destructive concert-goers became hostile following an announcement that a headlining act would not be taking the stage.
“Vancouver Police officers were already inside the venue and providing extra security when several hundred people began fighting and destroying property in the Amphitheatre, on the PNE grounds, and in the surrounding neighbourhood,” says Constable Tania Visintin. “Dozens of extra officers were redeployed from other areas of the city to restore order, with some officers having bottles and other objects thrown at them.”
Metro Vancouver Transit Police were among the officers who responded and helped Vancouver Police restore order.
Though no major injuries have been reported, there is likely thousands of dollars in property damage. Garbage bins and food vendor kiosks were overturned and damaged during the chaos. Tables, refrigerators, and tents were knocked down and thrown. Several people climbed various fixtures including a tall lamp post.
Seven people were arrested and taken to jail for breach of the peace, however, the criminal investigation will likely take months to complete.
“We will conduct a full and thorough investigation into the actions of anyone who destroyed property, put concert-goers in danger, or committed other criminal acts,” adds Constable Visintin. “Though this investigation will take time, we will pursue criminal charges against people who participated in this violence and destruction.”
