Arch-climbing fans force Raptors to temporarily stop championship parade

The scene in downtown Toronto was absolutely incredible for the Raptors’ NBA championship parade on Monday. But when you have an estimated 2 million people in one place, there is often someone who will cross a line (and potentially ruin the occasion for others).

Thankfully, it didn’t quite come to that in Toronto. But it was close.

As the massive crowds packed into Nathan Phillips Square, some fans looked to improve their view by climbing the arches. It made for an anxious situation in Toronto because, well, the fans on the arches presented a danger to both themselves and the fans standing below.

This didn’t happen in St. Louis — I can tell you that.

This could go real bad pic.twitter.com/GBZXurDORH

— Bruce Arthur (@bruce_arthur) June 17, 2019

Eventually, the city put a halt to the parade until the fans came down from the arches. According to TSN, an actual announcement was made over the loudspeakers to inform the fans that the parade wouldn’t continue until everyone was on the ground and safe.

Get down the arches pic.twitter.com/riJBRZy4eF

— Ⓜ️arcusD ▶️ (@_MarcusD3_) June 17, 2019

People are now being told ceremonies will not continue until people come down from the arches. @CityNewspic.twitter.com/O5Pg78xGRM

— Roshni Murthy (@RoshniMurthy) June 17, 2019

Don’t be those fans.

Let’s hope everyone in Toronto had a safe time at the parade.

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