Two teenagers from London are in trouble after police reported that a fireworks incident on the last night of Sunfest turned into an unlawful assembly, drawing a significant police response on Sunday night.
The London Police Service stated that officers witnessed a male shooting fireworks into a crowd at Victoria Park around 11 p. m.
“When officers moved in to arrest the suspect, a large crowd became agitated and surrounded them,” police said in a news release.
As tensions grew, more officers were called in, including members of the Emergency Response Unit and Public Order Unit.
WATCH | Fireworks set off in a crowd during Sunfest at Victoria Park:
2 teens were charged after fireworks were set off in a crowd in London, Ont.
Videos verified by show police lined up with riot shields facing off against festivalgoers near the northwest entrance of Victoria Park. Some clips show objects like water bottles being thrown at officers while fireworks were aimed towards them.
“Several officers were struck by rocks and bottles thrown by individuals in the crowd,” Police said. “One suspect was observed to be encouraging the disorder, and discharged fireworks toward police and nearby members of the public.”
Police declared the gathering unlawful after it escalated and began dispersing those present.
Two boys, aged 17 and 16, both from London, were arrested following the incident.
The 17-year-old faces charges for:
Assaulting a peace officer with a weapon. Being part of an unlawful assembly. Obstructing a peace officer. Possessing an explosive substance (fireworks) to endanger life.
The 16-year-old is charged with:
Assaulting a peace officer with a weapon. Being part of an unlawful assembly. Obstructing a peace officer.
Both teens are still in custody, and their identities won’t be released due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act, according to police.
No injuries were reported among officers or members of the public.
The organizers of Sunfest have stated they are aware of what happened.
“The safety of everyone attending Sunfest is always our highest priority,” read a statement sent Monday afternoon.
“We are continuing to work with our community partners and police services to review the incident.”
If anyone has cellphone footage or video from dashcams or surveillance cameras related to this incident, investigators encourage you to contact London police or Crime Stoppers. p>
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