Several people were injured after a “possible chemical agent” was released during Saturday night’s Baltimore Pride parade, according to Baltimore police.
Police said that just after 8:30 p.m., attendees informed officers stationed at the parade that a chemical agent — possibly mace, hairspray or something else — had been released into the crowd. Police confirmed it had not been released by police.
Fireworks were also set off during the event, causing a large crowd to flee, according to police, injuring several people. Police did not specify whether all the injuries were caused by the stampede or the chemical agent.
Firefighters treated individuals at the scene and the event was halted.
Police have not yet confirmed what type of chemical was released. They said they have no information at this time to conclude this was a targeted attack.
This isn’t the first Pride event this month to face disruptions.
In Poulsbo, Washington, 14 Pride banners were cut on June 5. On the social media platform And in Carlisle, Massachusetts, 200 Pride flags were stolen from the city center.
In May, the State Department issued a global security alert warning Americans abroad that terrorists could target lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people and LGBTQ-related events during Pride Month.
“Due to the possibility of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or acts of violence against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens abroad to exercise extra caution,” the alert reads.
“The Department of State is aware of the increased potential for violence against LGBTQI+ individuals and events inspired by foreign terrorist organizations and advises U.S. citizens abroad to exercise extra caution.”
This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
