Investigation underway following major gathering in London
London police say unsanctioned street parties drew as many as 18,000 people this past weekend, overwhelming 911 call volumes and forcing road closures.
Officers responded to large gatherings Saturday on Broughdale Avenue, Huron Street, Richmond Street and Mill Street, with about 5,000 to 7,000 people still crowding the streets into the evening. Police say several roads were closed and traffic reduced on Richmond Street for public safety.
“Most of the young adults we encountered were cooperative,” Acting Supt. David Pratt said, thanking partner agencies and out-of-town police services for their support.
Over the weekend, enforcement teams issued 136 Administrative Monetary Penalties for public nuisance parties, excessive noise and parking offences. Numerous verbal warnings were also handed out.
Middlesex-London Paramedic Services reported transporting 23 people Friday and Saturday, with a 29 per cent overall increase in calls compared to normal. London Fire Prevention Inspectors also dealt with open-air burning complaints in the Broughdale area.
Police say the call volume to their communications centre nearly doubled during the peak of the gatherings.
