A chaotic scene unfolded at Disney World's Magic Kingdom in Florida on Thursday evening, as a combination of a balloon popping and a fight led to widespread panic among visitors.
A Loud Popping Sound
The incident, which occurred in Orange County, has been described as a startling example of how quickly fears can escalate in crowded environments.
According to Orange County Sheriff's Office, the panic was triggered by a loud "popping" sound, which was initially believed to be a gunshot. This noise, combined with a nearby altercation, caused a stampede of frightened guests who feared there might be an active shooter in the theme park.
Gave the All-Clear
Social media footage from the scene shows the aftermath of the chaos, including a souvenir shop littered with items knocked over during the scramble.
The video also depicts guests huddled in corners and behind park fixtures, seeking shelter from the perceived threat. One witness, who shared their experience on social media, described a scene of distress, with people hiding and crying as they searched for loved ones.
Fortunately, authorities quickly clarified that there was no shooter present, and the noise was identified as coming from a burst balloon rather than a firearm.
The all-clear was given, but not before the park experienced significant disruptions and emotional distress among its guests.
