Police: Security Officer’s Gunshot Warning Caused Stampede

A stampede at a July 4 fireworks display that injured more than a dozen people started when a private security officer shouted for bystanders to take cover.
Police: Security Officer’s Gunshot Warning Caused Stampede
Chicago Police Department (CPD) officers stand guard while a woman relieves her son who had panicked after reports of stabbings and threatening injuries after the 4th of July celebrations at Chicago's Navy Pier. Amr Alfiky/Photo via AP
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CHICAGO—A stampede at a Fourth of July fireworks display that injured more than a dozen people at Chicago’s Navy Pier started when a private security officer shouted for bystanders to take cover, police said Friday.

Chicago police spokeswoman Kellie Bartoli said “approximately 13” people who fell or were trampled during the ruckus were hospitalized with minor injuries. The rush of people occurred shortly after a brawl that resulted in at least two stabbings.