'We were outnumbered.' Police weigh future of Tuckahoe festival after chaotic night
It happened right on the border of Eastchester and Tuckahoe. The Tuckahoe police chief says extensive pre-event planning took place to help make the fair safe.
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Tuckahoe police are now assessing the future of a longtime festival after crowds forced an early shutdown Friday night.
The Immaculate Conception and Assumption festival has been a community tradition for decades.
Officials say the fairgrounds became overcrowded around 8:15 p.m. Friday.
Monday coverage
Police say groups began fighting and illegally entering the premises, prompting officials to shut the event down early.
“We were outnumbered officer-wise,” said Tuckahoe Police Chief Larry Rotta said on Monday.
Rotta said the incident is not being classified as a “teen takeover.”
Police say mutual aid was called in to help manage the crowd.
Three Eastchester police officers suffered minor injuries.
Officials say there was no damage to property or civilians.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene.
“There were just a group of kids that were loud and rowdy and throwing things,” said resident Sal Provenzano.
Village Mayor Cara Kronen condemned the behavior, saying it put people at risk.
Fair hours were reduced Saturday and Sunday, and both days ended without incident.
Police say they will hold discussions about the future of the festival at a later date.
