Guelph’s Homecoming Parties Cause Major Disruption, Says Mayor

The homecoming parties in Guelph, Ont., on Saturday might have been the “worst” yet, according to Mayor Cam Guthrie.

Social media videos show thousands of young people dressed in red, yellow, white, and black celebrating at off-campus locations near Stone Road Mall.

In the afternoon, a large crowd gathered in the area and grew even larger. Some videos depict items being tossed into the crowd while others show young people climbing up building walls before falling into a bush.

Police shut down Chancellors Way between South Ring Road West and Stone Road West just after 5 p. m. on Saturday and announced on X, formerly Twitter, that this was “necessary to protect people’s safety.”

Guthrie mentioned that residents nearby “are ticked” about the party and its impact on their community, adding, “I don’t blame them.”

“It’s been pretty clear that it was probably the worst amount of issues that we’ve ever experienced in the history of homecoming parties,” Guthrie told CBC K-W’s The Morning Edition host Craig Norris during an interview on Monday morning.

“Not only has there been a huge amount of resources required from our own staff for front-line duties – think waste management, transit issues, and bylaw concerns – but our emergency services were also involved: police, fire crews, and paramedics faced many challenges.”

“It was really a ripple effect of problems that happened during homecoming which then impacted the entire community including neighborhoods and businesses that dealt with significant property damage,” he stated.

‘Significantly larger’ crowd this year: police

The Guelph Police Service reported that the number of attendees at the homecoming event “was significantly larger than in recent years and generated several public-safety concerns.”

“Officers responded to incidents involving objects being thrown around as well as people climbing buildings and other structures. There were also reports of shoplifting and vandalism impacting nearby businesses,” police said in a release on Monday afternoon.

“While no serious injuries are known at this time of this release, emergency responders treated multiple individuals for injuries such as cuts and lacerations and responded to various intoxication-related medical calls.” Most people enjoyed the day responsibly; however behavior that puts others at risk cannot be accepted.- Gord Cobey, Guelph police chief

Additional police resources were deployed including officers from the tactics and rescue unit.

“Their efforts helped restore order, prevent further injuries and allowed emergency personnel to safely reach those needing assistance,” police remarked.

They stated “several criminal and provincial offence charges,” although exact numbers weren’t provided.

“Investigators continue reviewing reported incidents along with video evidence; additional charges may follow.”

Guelph police Chief Gord Cobey noted homecoming is an opportunity for community celebration.

“Most people enjoyed the day responsibly but behavior that puts others at risk cannot be accepted,” Cobey emphasized.</pp

People treated for head injuries from thrown bottles

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Guthrie mentioned he was informed that Guelph General Hospital’s emergency department saw numerous patients related to homecoming events needing medical care.</pp

Dr. Alex Folkl, chief of emergency medicine at Guelph General Hospital said in a statement to that approximately 60 individuals were treated concerning homecoming festivities.</pp

Patients received treatment for “head injuries caused by thrown bottles along with lacerations and intoxication.”</pp

“Homecoming-related visits put significant pressure on critical hospital resources. This weekend our emergency department operated beyond capacity,” Folkl explained.</pp

If we had also faced an influx of seriously ill patients or even a small multi-patient trauma event there was a real risk we wouldn’t have been able to provide every patient with timely care they needed.”</pp

He urged college students “to make safe responsible choices regarding alcohol use.”</pp

This can lower injury risks while preventing unnecessary hospital visits.” </h2

The university expresses disappointment over street party

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The University of Guelph released a statement via social media reminding students one day before homecoming to be “mindful your actions reflect those around you.”

Please remember your Gryphon values while respecting neighbors within our community when you became Uof G students. Stay safe looking out for yourself alongside each other,” read their post.

Rene Van Acker president vice-chancellor University Guelph shared Monday officials are “deeply disappointed” by unsanctioned gathering stating “we’re clear this must not happen again.”
An image taken from video shows Guelph police responding Saturday evening.
Both Guthrie Van Acker observed students who attended past celebrations weren’t solely limited local participants because some charged previous years came other cities.
Van Acker stated certain local students engaged unacceptable behaviors falling below community expectations.
“When violations occur regarding university policies applicable laws actions will follow,” he continued expressing gratitude first responders hospital workers city staff support weekend’s events.

Difficulties stopping these gatherings according mayor’s view

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