ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that there was no active shooter situation at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom on Thursday night.
In a post on X, the sheriff’s office clarified that a fight broke out, followed by a “popping” sound, possibly from a balloon bursting, which led to widespread panic as people began to flee.
The location of the fight and whether anyone was injured remains unclear, as does any potential harm caused during the ensuing chaos.
Social media began reporting an incident at Magic Kingdom shortly before 10:30 p.m.
In a statement issued around 11:30 p.m., Walt Disney World announced that normal operations had resumed, although the park was closed for the evening. Magic Kingdom had planned to operate from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. that day.
“We appreciate the swift response from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in assessing and resolving the situation. Normal operations have resumed, and the park is now closed,” the statement read.
Glenn Brady, visiting from Kansas, described the scene during the panic. He noted that the “Happily Ever After” fireworks show had just concluded, with rides and attractions already closed for the night, although the shops remained open.
Brady recounted, “We were walking down Main Street when suddenly, people rushed into the store where my family was.” Security personnel instructed everyone to take cover as he briefly lost sight of one of his daughters.
He eventually reunited with his wife, two daughters, and two grandchildren, who were huddled together awaiting updates. Brady characterized the atmosphere as chaotic, with many people visibly upset and fearful.