Chicago Cancels Cinco De Mayo Parade After Massive Gang Brawl Between The Latin Kings And Satan’s Disciples

Chicago’s annual Cinco De Mayo parade was abruptly halted and canceled Sunday amid reports of gang-related violence near the route, according to Chicago police.

Police made the announcement Sunday afternoon shortly after the parade had been scheduled to get underway. Citing an “abundance of caution,” officials said that the parade was canceled following reports of large-scale fights in the area.

The decision was made “in agreement between CPD’s 10th District, elected officials and parade organizers following gang violence in the area,” according to a statement from Chicago police.

Romelia Aviles, a mother of two from Pilsen was among hundreds of people waiting for the parade to step off near West Cermak Avenue and South Damen Road when she said an incident down the street prompted a delay.

“It’s sad that most of the years that we try to celebrate with families and bring our kids to show them our roots and our culture, this has to happen,” she said.

A woman working at a currency exchange told NBC Chicago off camera she heard commotion outside and saw people throwing up gang signs.

The president of the Cermak Road Chamber of Commerce addressed the incident, saying the parade was delayed due to gangs fighting and people being violent towards officers.