Hundreds of people came to Jacksonville Beach to celebrate Independence Day. While people enjoyed the shows, many said they also kept their guard up.
People said they remain cautious after gun violence marred two recent holidays. One person was killed on St. Patrick’s Day and a teenager was shot on Memorial Day.
From the shoreline to Latham Plaza, hundreds of people gathered at Jax Beach to watch the fireworks spectacle.
Jacksonville resident Janice Stalmann says they normally watch fireworks on TV, but tonight they braved the crowds.
“Because the television wasn’t working to see that, we had to see real fireworks, apart from the fireworks in our neighborhood,” Stalmann said.
Visitors traveled from far and wide to visit the sunny beaches of Jacksonville. Theresa Charsky came all the way from New York with her son.
Her son Collin said he was most looking forward to the beach.
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Safety was a top priority for Orlando resident Diana Bermeo, especially in light of the recent shootings.
“That was one of our biggest concerns,” Bermeo said. “She wanted to go get a drink, but she didn’t feel safe.”
Jacksonville Beach police said they have increased staffing for the holiday and nearby agencies are also on hand to assist if needed.
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For Stalmann this was enough.
“I’m 80 years old, I’m not worried,” Stalmann said. “What’s going to happen, is going to happen.”
But Charsky said she just wants to make sure she stays on guard.
“I think it’s just checking your surroundings, making sure you’re safe and just knowing where you’re supposed to be and what’s going on around you,” Charsky said. “It’s everywhere.”
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