Hundreds of people gathered at English Bay beach this weekend for an impromptu dance party.
In response, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) eventually dispersed the crowd and confiscated a speaker.
On Monday, the VPD issued a press release stating it was a busy weekend for the force and resources were "stretched thin."
“The downtown core and West End proved particularly challenging, as the summer weather drew thousands of Vancouver residents to public parks and beaches, while attracted large crowds from other parts of Metro Vancouver,” says Sgt. Steve Addison in the release.
Of particular note was the party held at beach.
"They flagrantly drank liquor, disregarded social distancing rules, and played loud music through an amplifier," states the VPD of the beach party-goers.
While extra police were called in to break up the party and one speaker was taken, the VPD does not indicate any further action was taken in regards to COVID-19 public health order compliance.
"While we appreciate everyone wants to get outside and enjoy the warm, spring weather, we need people to exercise good judgement during the pandemic to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to allow first responders to quickly respond to emergencies," Addison says in the release.
During a live media briefing Monday morning, Addison emphasized the need for Vancouver residents to limit their social activities: "Vancouverites need to stay close to their home."
"We are in a pandemic," added Addison.
Among the other events this weekend that stretched police officers was the city's fifth homicide and a strange case involving a man on a scooter and coyotes in Stanley Park.
Photos shared to social media over the weekend show crowded scenes at English Bay beach.
