Mass panic erupted at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom around 10 p.m. Saturday after a fight and a popped balloon sparked false rumors of an active shooter, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.

The incident caused significant alarm among guests, leading to a chaotic stampede as families rushed to find one another amidst the confusion. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office quickly confirmed that there was no active shooter, attributing the panic solely to the earlier disturbances and ensuring safety in the park as normal operations resumed shortly after the scare.

Witnesses reported scenes of chaos as the park began to empty for the night. In the midst of the growing disturbances, many guests expressed fear and confusion; some were desperately trying to locate their children as they felt the urgency of the situation escalate. The sound of a balloon popping, combined with the fight, created an inadvertent atmosphere that sparked widespread anxiety among attendees, many of whom were likely concluding a day of enjoyment at the iconic park.

As reports of an active shooter circulated on social media platforms, the situation intensified with guests running toward exits and seeking safety. The noise and mayhem were attributed to a fight and a popping balloon, which sparked mass panic among guests. The Orange County Sheriff's Office confirmed there was no active shooter and quickly responded to the scene to check the area for safety, while some guests in stores were held inside for about 15 minutes.

During the initial panic, some guests took refuge in nearby stores, where they were instructed to remain inside for approximately 15 minutes as law enforcement conducted safety checks. This was a precautionary measure intended to ensure no further threats existed within the park. However, inside the stores, guests were left to anxiously await updates, building on the uncertainty that had taken hold of the night.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office later confirmed that their investigation found no evidence of an active shooter; the tumultuous events stemmed from a fight combined with the unsettling sound of a balloon popping. As the sheriff’s office ensured everyone’s safety, guests began to calm down, although many remained rattled by the quick turn of events. The confirmation helped to alleviate fears and restore some sense of normalcy to the area, although the park had already proceeded with closing for the evening.

In the wake of the incident, a spokesperson for Walt Disney World Resorts expressed gratitude toward the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for their prompt and effective response in addressing the chaos. This acknowledgment reflects the importance of a coordinated response during emergencies to protect guests' safety and manage panic efficiently. With the incident addressed, the park's staff began to assist guests in exit procedures, ensuring everyone could leave the park safely.

Although this incident ended without serious injuries, it serves as a reminder of the potential for panic in crowded venues, particularly when misinformation spreads quickly. Parks and entertainment venues often implement safety protocols for various emergency situations, and this event underscores the importance of those measures being in place. Guests are encouraged to remain calm and informed during such crises, emphasizing the need for accurate communication to prevent unnecessary panic.