CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago’s annual Cinco de Mayo parade was abruptly canceled on Sunday over reports of gang-related violence near the route, according to a statement from Chicago police.
Police made the announcement shortly after the parade had been scheduled to get underway. Officials said the parade was canceled out of an abundance of caution following reports of large-scale fights in the area.
The decision was made “in agreement between CPD’s 10th District, elected officials and parade organizers following gang violence in the area," the statement read.
Chicago police said multiple arrests were made, including several for weapons possession and other charges, and officers are continuing to work to clear the parade route.
The parade was set to step off from an area near Cermak Road and Damen Avenue and was scheduled to work its way through the Lower West Side and into Little Village.
Floats, dancers, and mariachi bands were moved from the area and some reportedly took a different route to create what some said was an alternative Cinco de Mayo parade.
WBBM reporter Dave Berner contributed.
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