Oakdale Police Address Summerfest Fireworks Incident After Fights Cause Panic
Published: June 28th, 2026
OAKDALE MN: The Oakdale Police Department says multiple fights and the actions of a large group of unruly juveniles caused panic during Oakdale's Summerfest fireworks celebration Saturday night, prompting officers to request assistance from neighboring law enforcement agencies.
In a statement released Sunday, Police Chief Newton acknowledged that the incident was "understandably frightening" for the families and residents in attendance but said no injuries were reported despite the chaos.
According to the department, officers assigned to the event responded to multiple fights involving a large group of juveniles whose behavior created panic throughout the park. During the incident, one attendee reported seeing individuals with handguns.
Police said that report has not been confirmed, and authorities have no confirmed reports that any shots were fired during the event.
The Oakdale Police Department had a full complement of officers assigned to Summerfest alongside Oakdale Fire and Public Works personnel. As the situation escalated, additional assistance was requested from neighboring law enforcement agencies, including the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Ramsey County Sheriff's Office, Woodbury Police Department, and Maplewood Police Department.
Chief Newton said those agencies responded quickly to help restore order and ensure attendees could leave the event safely.
The department said it is actively evaluating the events of Saturday night and will continue working with Summerfest organizers and public safety partners to consider additional security measures for future events.
"Summerfest has long been a tradition that brings our community together," Chief Newton said. "It is disappointing that the actions of a relatively small group overshadowed an otherwise successful celebration."
Chief Newton said the Oakdale Police Department remains committed to keeping Oakdale a safe place to live, work and celebrate together.