Still frame from video taken by UnderGround Nation in Brampton last July 1 in Brampton.

Brampton wants to step up security, including bag checks on Canada Day this year, to avoid the repeat behaviour of the unruly crowd that took over the celebrations last year.

The city plans to spend more than $200,000 — an increase of $80,000 — to add security personnel and put up more fencing for crowd control at Chinguacousy Park on July 1. The measures have to be approved by city council before they go into effect.

“These measures are intended to ensure the city can safely manage the large attendance levels anticipated for Canada Day celebrations at Chinguacousy Park, in response to a notable increase in anti-social behaviour and broader public safety concerns associated with large-scale outdoor festivals and events,” reads a report that will be presented to a city committee next week.

The report stems from a request by city councillors for an action plan to combat what one insider called “the takeover of the park” last year.

Councillors went behind closed doors to discuss the problem in November, but did not raise the issue during the public session of a committee meeting.

The move follows the mayhem that occurred on July 1 of 2025, during evening and nighttime celebrations at the park.

Accounts at that time indicate groups of young people were shooting fireworks at each other and at bystanders. An unconfirmed report indicates that a police officer was struck.

Video filmed at the scene by UnderGround Nation shows people running for cover and police and security moving in to try to quell the disturbance.

“Those dumb teens throwing fireworks lit one and threw it right beside my stroller that had my 3-month-old in it while I was holding my 1-year-old. You all ruined Canada Day,” wrote one commenter in response to the YouTube video.

The videomakers called the situation “madness” and “insane,” adding that what was witnessed was: “Wild fireworks flying, no crowd control, cops scrambling, and people running for cover.”

The report that will go before the committee justifies the need for increased spending on Canada Day.

“This report outlines the additional operational requirements necessary to support a safe Canada Day 2026 celebration in Chinguacousy Park under the revised event footprint,” the summary reads. “These measures include perimeter fencing, controlled access points, enhanced security staffing, bag checks, and additional safety infrastructure such as light towers and signage.”

 


INsauga’s Editorial Standards and Policies

Last 30 Days: 27,421 Votes

All Time: 1,283,111 Votes

917 VOTES
Should MPs switching parties trigger an automatic by-election?

WIN A $100 GIFT CARD

Subscribe to INsauga’s daily email newsletter for a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card.