Large crowd forces early CNE closure on Youth Day

WATCH ABOVE: A fun filled day at the Ex was cut short Tuesday when unusually large crowds at the CNE for “youth day” got out of hand. Caryn Lieberman speaks to one man who was there and witnessed the chaos.

TORONTO – Police say “general disorder” caused the midway at the CNE to close one hour early on Youth Day.

The event, which was held on Tuesday, allows anyone under 19 to enter the park for free before 3 p.m.

However, the festivities were cut short before the official closing time at midnight due to the large crowd of about 50 to 60 youth.

“There were concerns over gatherings and behaviours. We got 911 calls from people who were there,” said Const. Victor Kwong, adding that due to the serious nature of the calls police and CNE officials chose to shut down early at 11 p.m.

“We responded to 911 concerns from staff and CNE-goers and it was a decision for everyone’s safety to shut down.”

Kwong said police received calls at around 9:30 p.m. about a “gathering of specific youth” in addition to a gun call, but no weapon was found.

READ MORE: In pictures: the history of the CNE

CNE General Manager Virginia Ludy insists safety is paramount and that there were no incidents on the midway Tuesday night.

“There were crowds of young people having fun on the midway connecting with friends and family and everybody left at a reasonable time and in a safe manner,” she said.

Ludy says there have been other times when the CNE has closed earlier than scheduled, due to inclement weather.