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Police respond to Portage County park for disturbance during Juneteenth celebration

Portage County Sheriff's Office .jpg
Posted at 10:07 PM, Jun 19, 2021
and last updated 2021-06-20 19:15:27-04

SUFFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio — The Portage County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded to Wingfoot Lake Park in Suffield Township for reports of shots fired and guns seen in a large crowd at a Juneteenth celebration. The park has since been evacuated and no injuries were reported.

"In response to the recent events that took place this evening at Wingfoot Lake Park in Suffield Township, the situation is now under control as all parties have been evacuated from the park. At this time, firearm complaints will be investigated," the sheriff's office said. "At this time, patrols will continue in the area and we ask that you refrain from attending the park."

Multiple agencies, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol and sheriff's departments from neighboring counties responded to the scene. Additionally, agents from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Springfield police, Hartville police, Mogadore police and Lakemore police responded.

The Portage County Sheriff's Office posted on Facebook earlier about the size of the crowd and the disturbance.
"We have a current situation where there have been reports of shots fired and firearms visible in a crowd of over 2,000 people that are gathered for a Juneteenth celebration and party at Wingfoot Lake Park in Suffield Township," the Portage County Sheriff's Office said.

Residents were asked to avoid the area.

"We are attempting to control and evacuate the crowds and restore peace and order at the scene. We will be investigating the original call for help regarding shots fired," the sheriff's office said earlier.

The crowds were later brought under control and dispersed.

No one was hurt.

The sheriff's office said it has "received an overwhelming amount of inquiries regarding an increased amount of law enforcement presence in Suffield Township at Wingfoot Lake Park." Authorities ask that you only contact them in case of emergency.

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