Disney World stampede caused by false active shooter claims, sheriff says

A fight and a “popping” sound led to a stampede at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom on Thursday after park guests believed the noise was caused by an active shooter, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department.

In a post on X, the sheriff's department confirmed that there was no active shooter present at the Orlando theme park.

“A fight occurred, and a ‘popping’ sound was heard that we believe was a balloon,” it said. “Guests began running and that’s how the active shooter rumor started.”

Videos shared on social media captured the chaos following the incident. One clip posted by the X account HorrorMann67 showed a large crowd attempting to exit the park as police cars and officers can be seen in the area. Another shared by X user anxrosa showed a gift shop in disarray, with people hiding behind shelves, souvenir cups scattered on the floor and an abandoned stroller.

Normal operations have resumed following the incident, according to a Walt Disney World spokesperson.

“We appreciate the immediate response of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to quickly assess and clear the situation,” Walt Disney World said in a statement Thursday evening.