Organisers Apologise After Family Festival at Party in the Park Leads to Crowd Crush Incident

Organisers of a festival in London have expressed their regret following an incident that resulted in injuries to several attendees due to a crowd surge. Disturbing footage shared on social media captured guests in distress as they attempted to escape the chaos during the Ghana Party in the Park event, held on Saturday at Barnet Park in North London. Eyewitness accounts revealed that some festival-goers fell to the ground, while others were heard shouting in panic.

Initial reports indicate that three individuals were hospitalised, with additional attendees sustaining less serious injuries. In an official statement, festival organisers described the situation as “deeply upsetting.” Eyewitnesses recounted seeing injured individuals being carried away on stretchers by medical staff, with one 18-year-old attendee labelling the scene as “very chaotic” and criticising the festival’s organisation.

Organisers Respond to Incident

In a message shared on the event’s Instagram page, the organisers reflected on the day, stating: “Yesterday was one of the most difficult days in the history of Ghana Party in the Park. First and foremost, our thoughts are with everyone who was injured, distressed or otherwise affected by the events that took place.”

The statement continued: “Seeing members of our community impacted in this way has been deeply upsetting. We sincerely apologise and our hearts go out to everyone involved. We wish those who sustained injuries a full and speedy recovery and extend our sincere support to their families, friends and loved ones.”

Speculation regarding a potential stabbing incident was firmly denied by both the festival organisers and the Metropolitan Police. Following the surge of the crowd, the decision was made to close the festival early on Saturday, with organisers expressing sympathy for those affected and their families during this challenging time.

Clarification on Festival Safety

The statement further clarified: “We are also aware of inaccurate information circulating on social media. We can confirm that there were no stabbing incidents at the festival and no fatalities occurred.” Earlier in the day, a fire involving a vendor had necessitated a temporary suspension of the festival while emergency services, including the London Fire Brigade, attended to the situation. Once the fire was dealt with and the area deemed safe, normal operations resumed.

Later in the day, however, a crowd surge at the festival entrance led to several injuries among attendees. Emergency services, including the Metropolitan Police, London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade, and Air Ambulance, responded swiftly. After consulting with emergency services and their events management team, the difficult decision was made to conclude the festival prematurely for public safety.

Police Statement and Community Impact

In light of the incident, the Metropolitan Police in Barnet issued a statement: “Officers are at Copthall Playing Fields where Ghana Party in the Park has been cancelled after an overcrowding issue at the entrance saw several people sustain non-life-threatening injuries. Speculation about a stabbing is inaccurate. Please help us by avoiding the area.”

In total, 23 individuals received assistance from either emergency services or the event medical team, with nine assessed by the London Ambulance Service. Three were taken to hospital, where their conditions were confirmed as non-life-threatening. The event concluded early, and attendees exited without further incident.

For over two decades, Ghana Party in the Park has celebrated Ghanaian culture, music, and community, attracting thousands in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. This year’s festivities were held in conjunction with ShattaFest.