SAN MATEO (AP) – Several fights, unruly crowds and mounting unrest at the Bay Area Rap Scene Awards in suburban San Mateo on Saturday evening prompted organizers to end the party early, according to police.
The awards and hip-hop performances at the San Mateo Expo Center was scheduled from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 2495 South Delaware St.
San Mateo police Capt. Kevin Raffaelli reported that uninvited guests climbed on stage and an out-of-control pack near the stage put the safety of the performers and guests at risk.
Law enforcement back ups in addition to police and event security trying to get a handle on the situation were called in at 7:35 p.m. after fights broke out, according to Raffaelli. Authorities remained at the event for about 45 minutes and event promoters decided to clear out the festivities before they were over.
No one was arrested or injured, according to police.
