In a statement on their Facebook page, the oldest Irish Bar in Delaware has announced that they will no longer participate in the Halloween Loop.
The move comes after a fight broke out during the annual citywide party in which individuals pay a one-time cover charge to visit various nightspots throughout Wilmington.
Just after 1:00 this morning, Sunday, October 28, 2018, police officers from the Wilmington Police Department and New Castle County Police, along with Delaware State Troopers responded to Trolley Square for reports of shots fired.
As officers responded to the scene they were advised that between 200 and 300 people were near the intersection of Delaware Avenue and N Dupont Street and a fight was in progress.
Videos posted on social media by partygoers show several people fighting in the area before security personnel moved in to break up the fight. As the security team began separating the parties several gunshots were fired nearby.
Shortly after the gunfire someone is heard yelling “he’s got a gun right here” just before a Wilmington Police Officer runs by the camera. Video 1 Video 2 Video 3
The owner of the Logan House, Michael Kelly, issued the following statement in regards to the incident last night:
” The Logan House has resigned from the Halloween Loop. Regrettably, it brings to our establishment a clientele we do not welcome.
I am happy to report that no one was injured last night. We did everything “by the book”, including the hiring of extra security and police and the limiting of the number of customers.
We wish the Halloween Loop all the best. But we will no longer be a part of it. And we look forward to another 130 years of giving our customers a safe and fun place to visit.”
The Logan House is the oldest Irish Bar in Delaware and oldest continuous family-owned Irish bar in the country, according to their website. Kelly’s has enjoyed being at the center of the Forty Acres, (now Trolley Square) since 1864. A National Historic Site, it has been the hub for St. Patrick’s Day for close to 150 years. Kelly’s Logan House presently offers tavern, dining and banquet facilities, as well as live entertainment.
Early indications are that a suspect was taken into custody.
No injuries were reported as a result of this incident.