ORLANDO, Fla. – Social media posts have fueled rumors of a possible “teen takeover” Friday night at ICON Park, prompting extra law enforcement patrols and new restrictions for minors.
The concern comes months after a large gathering near ICON Park along International Drive in April, when more than 1,000 teens showed up and some were detained. Nine people were taken into custody at the scene, according to previous reports.
This week, posts promoting another “teen takeover” circulated online, drawing hundreds of reposts.
In an email to News 6, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office said deputies are aware of the rumored gathering and have increased patrols in the area.
ICON Park has also tightened entry rules. An alert posted on the park’s website and outside entrances states anyone 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older.
A park spokesperson said the policy began Thursday and will remain in place until 10 a.m. Saturday. ICON Park would not specify why the policy is being enforced, but said it is staying vigilant after seeing posts on social media, though which posts were not specified.
A family entering ICON Park told News 6 the added security presence makes them feel safer after seeing video from previous incidents.
“We need the police — we need more security,” one visitor said. Another said the video was “shocking” and added the added security “helps us feel more safe.”
News 6 continued monitoring posts Friday. One of the most recent messages claimed the event had been canceled, but extra patrols and the park’s security protocols remained in place Friday night.