Bloomington-Normal officials are discussing “pop-up parties” after the recent incident near ISU

By WJBC Staff

NORMAL – After a “pop-up party” near the Illinois State University campus turned deadly last weekend, local law enforcement is explaining more about these parties and community safety.

The incident occurred early Sunday morning When a group of around 1,000 people gathered at a park in Normal and then gathered at the Circle K gas station on Main Street. An 18-year-old male from Oak Lawn was shot and another 18-year-old man was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Authorities say these “pop-up parties” take place in college towns across the country and are publicized via social media by outside organizers and organizations.

Bryce Janssen, public information officer for the Bloomington Police Department, says these parties are a little different than a typical college party. Officer Brad Park of the Normal Police Department also joined the conversation as they spoke with WJBC's Scott Miller.

Last weekend's incident near ISU remains under investigation.

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