JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – This year's World of Nations Celebration at Metro Park was an even more realistic microcosm of what's going on around the globe, complete security checks, metal detectors, pat-downs of visitors and more police officers.
Security was increased after a social media post surfaced warning people of possible danger at the event, which runs through Sunday.
With recent shootings in January at Art Walk and outside the Jacksonville Landing, not to mention terror attacks around the world, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office is taking all threats seriously.
"This morning before we got on the bus with the kids, we were told by the teachers that there had been some threats to the World of Nations," said Tara Showalter, who escorted a school group to the event Friday. "They said that they ramped up security and everything was fine."
Police released a statement saying they were aware of the threat and ramped-up security:
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is aware of the social media post/rumor about the World of Nations Event this weekend. It is being investigated. All prevention and intervention measures are being taken to ensure a successful event without incident. We remind all citizens, whether attending special events or not, to be aware of your surroundings and if you SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING and notify authorities."
Dave Harrell, with the Jax Sports and Entertainment Office, said his office works closely with law enforcement to ensure public safety.
"From a public safety perspective, we are obviously very planned," Harrell said. "Every event we do, from a city standpoint, we work closely with JSO, JFRD (and) all of our public safety partners to really deliver a positive environment for people to attend."
For more information about the event, visit the city of Jacksonville's World of Nations page.