Monterey County Fair evacuated after multiple fights breaks out

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION-TV) - UPDATE 10:39 P.M. The Monterey Police Department released a statement on the Fair evacuations tonight:

The MPD was working the fair tonight when security was alerted that someone may have been shot in the carnival area. MPD officers in the carnival area did not hear any shots or observe indications of a shooting. Other people reported seeing a male with a gun, but a good description was not provided. Several fights started occurring in the carnival and adjacent areas. The issue started escalating as more fights broke out. MPD had officers devoted solely to the fair and called every MPD resource in the city and mutual aid. All law enforcement agencies in the area responded to assist. Fair management and MPD worked together and made the decision to close the fair to ensure public safety. The MPD had not located any victims of a shooting. The MPD is continuing to investigate.

Original Article

The Monterey County Fair & Event Center confirmed it closed early with guest evacuated from the fair tonight after multiple large fights according to Monterey Police Lt. Jake Pinkas.

Monterey Police also confirmed there was no shooter nor any victim. There are no details on who or what instigated the fight.

In a media advisory issued by the MCF & Event Center, the reason for the evacuation was due to "a health and safety concern involving patrons."

The gates to the fair were closed before 9 p.m. The reason for the decision was "made out of an abundance of caution, prioritizing the well-being of our guests, staff and community."

No injuries have happened.

Full refunds will be made available for guests who purchases tickets, yet unable to get into the fair prior to to closure.

Refunds can be requested be made to 831-372-5863 or by contacting info@montereycountyfair.com

No other details about the evacuation are available at this time.