Aurora police monitor large gathering related to Venezuelan presidential election

DENVER ( KDVR ) — Aurora police monitored a large gathering of people on Havana Street and Mississippi Avenue in connection to the Venezuelan presidential election.

On Sunday, Venezuela’s opposition and President Nicolas Maduro’s government were locked in a high-stakes standoff after each side claimed victory in a presidential vote that millions saw as their best shot to end 25 years of single-party rule. In the streets of Venezuela, a mix of anger, tears and loud pot banging greeted the results by the Maduro-controlled National Electoral Council.

In Aurora, police were called to monitor a large group that gathered over the election in the parking lot of the Target at Havana and Mississippi. The officers said they were there to make sure the scene didn’t get out of hand.

Aurora police said there were reports of shots fired, but officers said those were from people who were shooting in the air. No injuries from the gathering were reported.

The Target and other nearby businesses chose to close early as a precaution.

Following the Venezuelan election, the U.S. held off on recognizing the results of Sunday’s election.

Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet released a statement on the standoff.

“I applaud the Venezuelan people, who have sought to restore the rule of law and democracy. The Venezuela National Electoral Council must swiftly release detailed results so that Venezuelans at home and abroad can have confidence in the outcome,” said Bennet on X.

The election will have ripple effects throughout the Americas, with government opponents and supporters alike signaling their interest in joining the millions of Venezuelans who have already left their crisis-plagued homes for opportunities abroad should Maduro win another six-year term.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.