Magic Kingdom Resumes Normal Operations After Threat and Lockdown

The Magic Kingdom was on lockdown for a brief period of time late last night. See what happened and how Disney responded.

What Happened

Late last night, around 10 p.m., there were various reports from guests at the Magic Kingdom saying that guests were stampeding due to what people thought was an active shooter in the area.

Guests were panicking and stampeding in the Emporium on Main Street. X user @anxrosa shared a post stating that a suspected shooter had caused guests to stampede. She said she was shoved out of the way and fell, and that “mothers were crying looking for their daughters, people were hiding, it was so bad.”

went to magic kingdom today and there was literally a stampede because of a suspected shooter i thought that was actually going to be my last day. i was shoved out of the way and fell. mothers were crying looking for their daughters, people were hiding, it was so bad. pic.twitter.com/NATeMuwceK

— D (@anxrosa) August 30, 2024

How Disney Responded

Cast Members immediately took action by evacuating guests to backstage areas and some guests hid in stores. The threat was believed to have taken place near the Monorail station.

Local authorities immediately came and evaluated the situation. The Orange County Sheriff later posted that there was no active shooter at the Magic Kingdom. Their statement on X read, “There is NO active shooter at @WaltDisneyWorld’s Magic Kingdom. A fight occurred, and a “popping” sound was heard that we believe was a balloon. Guests began running and that’s how the active shooter rumor started. There is no active shooter.”

ALERT: There is NO active shooter at @WaltDisneyWorld’s Magic Kingdom. A fight occurred, and a “popping” sound was heard that we believe was a balloon. Guests began running and that’s how the active shooter rumor started. There is no active shooter. pic.twitter.com/TRKLs3NglC

— Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) August 30, 2024

Disney’s Statement

Shortly thereafter, Disney issued the following statement regarding the incident.

“We appreciate the immediate response of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to quickly assess and clear the situation. Normal operations have resumed and the park is now closed for the evening.”

We are thankful there was no serious threat that took place at Walt Disney World and are glad there have been no reported injuries. This is also a good reminder to be kind and courteous to other guests and Cast Members. Disney has taken steps in reminding guests regarding common courtesy and unfortunately, Disney has seen its share of fights and incidents relating to guest behavior.

Were you at the Magic Kingdom last night? Share your experience with us in the comments below, and share this post with a friend.