Panic Erupts at Downtown Minneapolis Soccer Watch Party After Large Fight

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to North Loop Green in downtown Minneapolis on Sunday evening after reports of a possible shooting during a large public soccer watch party.

Authorities said officers were dispatched following numerous 911 calls reporting shots fired as panic spread through the crowd. However, after investigating the scene, police determined that no shots had been fired. Instead, the disturbance stemmed from a large brawl involving numerous attendees.

The false reports of gunfire triggered widespread fear among spectators, causing hundreds of people to flee the venue. As the crowd rushed to escape, several individuals were knocked to the ground in a stampede.

At least three people were reported injured after being trampled during the chaotic evacuation. Officials said the injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.

Witnesses described a scene of confusion as people ran for safety.

“People thought there were shots, everybody started running. Turns out it was fights. They eventually shut the game off and evacuated everyone,” one witness said.

Event organizers stopped the soccer watch party as law enforcement worked to clear the area and ensure there was no ongoing threat.

Police remained at the scene to investigate what led to the fight. No arrests or additional details regarding those involved have been released.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the altercation to contact investigators as the investigation remains ongoing.