Security increased at Western Carolina State Fair after incident, no injuries reported

Alexandra Koch, Aiken Standard, S.C.
·2 min read

Oct. 24—An incident at the Western Carolina State Fair on Saturday night prompted the fair to close early and new safety measures to be added.

There were rumors of a potential shooting Saturday night, however, the Aiken County Sheriff's Office said there were no confirmed reports of a shooting incident at the fair.

Capt. Eric Abdullah said deputies were on duty at the fair and a disturbance took place, but "no cooperating victim or witnesses" would speak to police.

On Sunday morning, the Western Carolina State Fair released a statement saying the fair closed early "to prevent further incidents from occurring."

"No weapons were on the fairgrounds," according to a statement posted by the Western Carolina State Fair Instagram account. "No injuries occurred and at no time was the safety of our patrons at risk, thanks to the enhanced security measures that have been implemented at the fair and the quick action of law enforcement."

According to the fair's website, enhanced safety measures were introduced at this year's event including multiple metal detectors and a clear bag policy. The fair also prohibited certain items from being brought onto the fairgrounds and stated personal items would be subject to search before fair admittance.

"Certain items are now prohibited at the Western Carolina State Fair including backpacks, fireworks, selfie sticks, pets (except for service animals), clothing or jewelry deemed to be offensive or gang related, drones on the property, and weapons including firearms, ammunition, knives of any kind, and pepper spray," according to the fair's website. "Concealed weapons are also not permitted."

In the statement released on Sunday morning, the fair stated the safety of fair patrons is their greatest concern.

"Additional security and safety measures have been implemented since last night's incident," according to the post. "The Western Carolina State Fair strives to provide a safe and fun environment for everyone. We encourage parents attend the fair with their children to reduce the chance of further incidents."