GLEN ELLYN, – A newly released video sheds light on a major disturbance at Sunset Pool in Glen Ellyn earlier this month, when hundreds of teenagers swarmed the facility, forcing an early closure.
According to the Glen Ellyn Police Department, officers were dispatched to the pool, located in the 400 block of Fairview Avenue, shortly before 5 p.m. on July 5, after reports of a crowd of 200 to 300 teens began to form.
There have been no reports of similar disruptions since the incident, but residents and village officials are concerned about it.
Police say many teenagers entered without paying, and some were allegedly smoking cannabis, drinking alcohol, and setting off fireworks. Parents who were at the pool with their children told WGN-TV that some teenagers were playing inappropriate music on loud portable speakers.
“It appears that a horde of kids have just come in, smoking marijuana and carrying coolers,” a caller informed 911 dispatchers.
Body-worn camera footage from responding officers depicts a chaotic scene. In one clip, an officer is heard saying, “I need five more cars for Sunset Pool. “Everybody out or you are going to jail,” as a crowd gathered inside and outside the pool gates.
Bystanders captured video of the moment a pool manager was pushed into the lap pool. A young man is seen helping her out of the water, while others laugh.
Another video shows fireworks being dropped from a silver SUV in a crowded parking lot.
While no serious injuries or property damage were reported, police said it took time to completely clear the area. Some teenagers resisted officers’ orders. However, one young man appeared to be apologetic, offering an officer a fist bump and saying sorry.
The overwhelming crowd and disruptive behavior prompted staff to close the pool early. Officers requested assistance from neighboring agencies to disperse the crowd, which included families attempting to cool off in the 90-degree heat.
One person was arrested for unlawful use of fireworks.
In a statement posted on the Village of Glen Ellyn’s website, officials acknowledged community concerns and stated that additional security was added over the weekend, with similar precautions planned for the future.
“On Saturday, July 5, the Glen Ellyn Police Department responded to a request for assistance from the Glen Ellyn Park District after receiving reports of disruptive behavior by a large group of teenagers and young adults at Sunset Pool. The Police Department worked with the Park District and neighboring law enforcement agencies to ensure the facility’s safety and security.
There were no serious injuries or property damage reported as a result of the incident, and the situation was resolved without escalation. The Glen Ellyn Police Department is continuing its investigation.
These incidents, which frequently involve large, rapidly forming groups of young people, can occur unexpectedly. Some are promoted on social media, while others emerge unexpectedly, making predictions difficult. The size, behavior, and impact of such events can vary greatly.
The Village understands and acknowledges the community’s concerns when these situations arise. The Police Department approaches each incident on an individual basis, tailoring its response to the current situation. The presence of a large group does not always indicate illegal behavior; however, when public safety is threatened, the Department is ready to respond quickly, including calling in mutual aid when necessary.
The Village appreciates the Police Department and Glen Ellyn Park District’s collaboration in dealing with this situation. Their coordinated efforts yielded a safe outcome for the community. Additional security measures will be in place at Sunset Pool this weekend and in the future, as needed.
Residents are encouraged to promptly report any developing gatherings or suspicious behavior. Timely information enables coordinated response efforts, and public safety remains our top priority.
