Law enforcement increases presence amid Fourth of July celebrations
The rise in violence across the county is raising questions about safety during Fourth of July celebrations in the Queen City.
Channel 9 reporter Glenn Counts spoke with those who attended one of the biggest fireworks displays in uptown about their growing concerns.
Julian Jimenez and his family were some of the thousands who attended the WBT SkyShow at Truist Field.
“Oh yeah, we’re having a good time today. Fourth of July. It feels good to have an extra day off. Four-day weekend. Can’t go wrong. Just relaxing, enjoying the summer,” Jimenez said.
While patriotism was on full display at the event, there was also the presence of heavy law enforcement.
“I do feel good when I see the police around. My father is a 33-year police veteran. He was on the SWAT team,” Scott Burdecki said.
Counts said officers could be seen on every corner, with some officers on bikes while others walked around with assault rifles.
“Keep in mind, for months leading up to the Fourth of July holiday, CMPD is in discussions and planning with our numerous partners, both in the public and private sector, to make sure everybody in Charlotte Mecklenburg has a safe Fourth of July holiday,” Lt. Steve Fischbach said.
Some small vendors, like Franks Italian Ice, told Counts they were counting on the event being a success and were not worried about recent bouts of gun violence discouraging people from celebrating the holiday.
“Yes, you really don’t know what’s going on these days, but I feel safe. And we have CMPD here, so we shouldn’t run into any issues,” Lecrecia Jenkins, who works with Frankies, said.
Counts said fortunately the event went off without a hitch, with no major disruption reported.
(WATCH BELOW: At least 6 dead in shooting at holiday parade near Chicago)
