Advertisement

Raptors parade runs late, descends into chaos with overcrowding

arun srinivasan
Contributing Writer

It’s the party of a lifetime in Toronto, as the city and country celebrates en masse for the Raptors’ first NBA championship ever. As the day progressed, however, it became clear the city wasn’t properly prepared for the festivities, after having 26 years to plan for this outcome.

A number of fans scaled the arches at Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square, one of the central hubs of the city. While the enthusiasm is appreciated, it’s certainly a safety risk to all the people who gathered in attendance to see the team.

The parade was temporarily halted at the square due to safety concerns, and fans were told to get down from the arches.

The City of Toronto also put out an advisory that Nathan Phillips Square reached capacity and no one else is allowed to enter the square.

Afterwards, Toronto Police tweeted that there’s more space at Yonge-Dundas Square for fans to take part in the parade and the rally. The logistics of transferring tens of thousands of people remain unclear.

Fans are beginning to run out of patience, however.

Unfortunately, with an estimated two million people in attendance, children have been reported missing and Toronto Police set up a line to find any kids who wandered off.

We don’t want to sound like anyone’s overbearing parents, but stay safe out there, Toronto.

More Raptors coverage from Yahoo Sports