A Halloween house party organized for teenage siblings devolved into widespread disorder when word spread on social media, attracting more than 200 uninvited youths.
Ten police officers were dispatched to the Lancashire home of the company director father of the teenagers following reports of underage drinking, drug use, fireworks, and loud music. Three individuals were arrested at the scene, and another required hospitalization as neighbors reported extreme disturbances.
Local authorities took to Facebook to request parents collect their children, some of whom had traveled from up to 30 miles away and were reportedly under the influence of alcohol. The homeowner, Sam Mills, 46, stated that the situation had become unmanageable, and the arrival of police was a relief.
Initially intended for approximately 30 guests, the party rapidly spiraled out of control after its location was shared online. Teenagers, aged between 14 and 17, began arriving from other parties that had concluded, with the situation becoming unmanageable by 10:30 p.m.
Neighbors described scenes of chaos, with scores of young people occupying an unlit country lane. One resident expressed concern for the safety of the youths, stating, "There were youngsters all over the road who had no idea how dangerous it is because drivers speed along here." This was reportedly the most disruptive Halloween party held at the property.
Mr. Mills explained that the party became widely publicized on social media, leading to attendees arriving from distant locations such as Blackpool and Manchester. He attempted to manage the situation by moving the music outdoors and containing guests in the garden. However, the number of attendees became overwhelming.
He noted that one young man became ill from excessive alcohol consumption and was taken to the hospital by his mother, who subsequently contacted the police. Mr. Mills denied any involvement with the alcohol or drugs, which he stated he believed were cannabis found in the garden.
Upon the police's arrival, Mr. Mills felt they were necessary to regain control. He clarified that he did not barricade himself inside but was attempting to keep the partygoers contained within the garden area. Minor damages were reported, and a cleaning company was hired to manage the aftermath.
Two teenagers were referred to youth offending teams. One was cited for cannabis possession, and the other for public intoxication. One of the initial three arrests was rescinded, and the individual was taken home.
Lancashire Police confirmed that while no one sustained serious injuries, an investigation is ongoing concerning the hospitalization of a child. Sergeant Paul Harrison reported that fireworks were set off towards a nearby house, believed to be by party attendees. He also noted the presence of alcohol and cannabis and estimated that over 200 youths were in attendance, disturbing the peace with loud music.
Officers reported projectiles being thrown at them as they attempted to de-escalate the situation. Sergeant Harrison stated that the decision to shut down the party was made due to the scale of the event and the disturbances. He added that a social media post was the most effective method to notify parents and ensure child safety given the number of attendees and limited police resources. The police appealed for information regarding illegal activities, including the supply of drugs, fireworks, and alcohol to minors.