Cinco de Mayo parade canceled due to gang violence in the area, police say; 27 arrested, 3 guns recovered
CHICAGO (CBS) — Gang violence broke out at Chicago's annual Cinco de Mayo parade Sunday in Little Village, leading to more than two dozen arrests.
The day started as a fun, family celebration of Mexican culture and history. There was a stream of colorful dancers, mariachi bands, and countless Mexican flags.
But the day took a turn after gunfire was reported near the parade route.
A CBS 2 photographer caught on camera what appear to be rival gangs flashing gang signs and shouting at each other along the parade route at Cermak and Rockwell.
A short time later, Chicago Police issued a statement saying they were canceling the parade out of an abundance of caution—however, Ald. Byron Sigcho Lopez (25th) said the parade was not canceled but rerouted away from the chaos.
The Chicago Police Department has not clarified what happened.
Police said 27 people were arrested, including several for weapons possession, and three guns were recovered.