An outbreak of gang violence Sunday forced Chicago police to abruptly cancel the annual Cinco de Mayo parade in the Second City, police said.
“Out of an abundance of caution and for the safety of all participants, including families and children, the Cinco de Mayo parade has been canceled.” The ministry told X:.
“This decision was made in response to gang violence in the area and in agreement with CPD District 10, elected officials and parade organizers,” police said in a statement. “Multiple arrests have been made at this time, including a firearm arrest.
“CPD is currently clearing the parade route and asking all parade participants to return home safely.”
The Cinco de Mayo parade, which celebrates the defeat of Mexican troops at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, has been a long-standing annual tradition in the Windy City.
This route takes revelers through Little Village and Pilseong. This year’s festivities begin Friday at Douglas Park and are scheduled to end with a parade on Sunday.
However, authorities deemed the safety risks too great.
The parade was canceled at the last minute due to restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Meanwhile, violent crime continues in Chicago, with nine people killed and 43 injured in a series of shootings over Memorial Day weekend last year.
