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Panic at Disney: False ‘Active Shooter’ Report Causes Chaos at Magic Kingdom, Guests Scramble for Safety

Cinderella Castle viewed from Tomorrowland at dusk
Credit: Jeff Krause, Flickr

A developing story takes place when a possible situation unfolds inside the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.

A large and ornate castle with spires, surrounded by lush greenery and a colorful garden with umbrellas, under dark, dramatic clouds in the sky. People are walking around the castle, enjoying the park.

Credit: Bill Dodd, Flickr

Update: After hundreds of reports from Disney World guests about an “active shooter” inside of Magic Kingdom, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office put out the following statement: 

ALERT: There is NO active shooter at

’s Magic Kingdom. A fight occurred, and a “popping” sound was heard that we believe was a balloon. Guests began running and that’s how the active shooter rumor started. There is no active shooter.

Magic Kingdom at Disney World Dealing with Unfolding Situation Involving Possible Danger

As of 10:01 p.m. EST, Walt Disney World Resort is under some unknown scenario. Thousands of guests were sent into a panic and frenzy mode, seeking shelter in various locations throughout the Magic Kingdom after “gunshots” and “reports of an active shooter” were reported just moments ago. Guests are taking to social media to understand what is happening, as this is a developing story.

there was just a fucking stampede in magic kingdom i think people thought there was a shooter that was the scariest thing i’ve ever been in in my entire life – @smalltalkari on X

i’m in magic kingdom rn looking up to see what happened was it really a gunshot? – @eternalswandas on X

Inside The Magic is actively working to uncover more details regarding reports of a potentially dangerous situation at Walt Disney World. Multiple guests have taken to social media, claiming to have heard gunshots and circulating rumors of an active shooter within the theme park. These reports remain unconfirmed, and there has been no official statement from Disney World or law enforcement.

Multiple reports of a gun scare at Magic Kingdom going through. Cops everywhere, tons of people backstage, monorails closed, items left on Main Street as families ditched everything to hide. Horrifyingly scary situation. – @coasterstudios on X

In response to these alarming claims, Inside The Magic is closely monitoring the situation and contacting various sources for further clarification. Guests and park staff are urged to remain vigilant and follow any safety instructions authorities provide. This is a developing story, and Inside The Magic will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Crowds in front of Cinderella Castle

Credit: Inside the Magic

Security incident at Magic Kingdom. Have a family member saying they are in lockdown.

@MWetsoil on X

Possible shooting at Magic Kingdom! I am here with my family and the park is now lockdown

@Matthew39193667 on X

went to magic kingdom today and there was literally a stampede because of a suspected shooter i thought that was actually going to be my last day. i was shoved out of the way and fell. mothers were crying looking for their daughters, people were hiding, it was so bad.

@anxrosa on X

In the event of an active shooter situation, Disney World has comprehensive safety protocols in place to protect guests and employees. The theme park’s uniformed and plainclothes security team is trained to respond swiftly to any potential threat. Disney World works closely with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a coordinated response, which includes immediate communication with onsite personnel and guests.

I have loved ones there (who are currently safe) and they said it’s concentrated to around Main Street, and people were getting pushed and shoved everywhere, kids crying… absolutely awful

@coasterstudios on X

Disney World employs various measures to mitigate the risk of such incidents, including advanced surveillance systems, regular safety drills, and a robust communication network. Guests may be directed to specific secure locations within the park, known as “safe zones,” where they can shelter in place until the situation is resolved. Additionally, the park has established evacuation procedures and lockdown protocols that are activated as needed to ensure the safety of everyone on the premises.

The park’s response plan also emphasizes clear and timely communication. During an active shooter situation, guests and employees are informed of the situation through loudspeaker announcements, digital displays, and direct communication from staff members. Disney World’s top priority in these scenarios is to minimize harm and ensure that all guests and employees are safely out of harm’s way as quickly as possible.

A split image shows an aerial view of a waterfront area with a circular pier and nearby buildings on the left, and a close-up of a police car's flashing lights with the word

Credit: Inside The Magic

For now, Inside The Magic urges readers to use social media platforms, notably X, to confirm or deny rumors about a possible dangerous situation inside Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. As more guests share their experiences and observations online, the collective input from those on the ground could provide critical insights into the ongoing scenario.

from magic kingdom? they have it blocked off with police right now to my knowledge

@anxrosa on X

Disney World guests rapidly turn to X to describe the frightening events they believe are unfolding within the park. Posts are flooding in, with individuals detailing what they have seen or heard, contributing to the growing sense of concern and uncertainty. This real-time exchange of information is vital as it offers a glimpse into what may be occurring. However, it is essential to approach these reports with caution until more concrete information is available.

Inside The Magic monitors social media closely, gathering and verifying reports as they emerge. The platform encourages anyone with relevant information or firsthand accounts to share their experiences to help create a clearer picture of the situation. As this story develops, the power of social media remains a crucial tool in understanding and addressing the potential threat at one of the world’s most iconic theme parks.

About Emmanuel Detres

Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

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