Law-abiding Venezuelans watch election results in Aurora, leave behind mess

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The Aurora Police Department released a statement on Tuesday on social media to clear up misinformation about an incident involving thousands of migrants.

“Misinformation has spread on social media regarding the large gathering on Sunday at Gardens on Havana shopping center,” Aurora PD posted on X. “We recognize that Sunday’s incident was disconcerting and alarming for a large number of our residents and citizens. The purpose of this message is to provide the community with accurate information based on what we know right now.”

The post reported:

· “An estimated 3,000 to 4,000 people gathered Sunday at the Gardens on Havana shopping center to await the Venezuelan presidential election results.

· “APD learned about the gathering before 5 p.m. when there was a report of suspicious activity at the shopping center. APD subsequently investigated a report of an assault on a store employee during a shoplifting incident.

· “APD established a command post to monitor the gathering.

· “There were incidents of shots being fired into the air during the gathering. APD did not receive any reports of anyone being injured by gunfire.

· “The large crowd made it difficult for customers to enter and leave the shopping center, and roadways in the immediate area were impassable.

· Trash and debris were left behind by those who attended the event.

· “APD did not make any arrests nor did officers issue any tickets, citations, or summons.

· “There is no evidence to date that the gathering was organized by a criminal organization or that any gang activity occurred related to the gathering. -While there are claims that some attendees at the gathering rioted, causing damage to businesses, passing vehicles, and causing harm to passersby in the area, APD has received no such reports to date.

· “An Aurora patrol unit was hit by an unknown object while driving in the area, and it is unclear at this time if it was related to the gathering. The object caused minor damage, and APD is still investigating the incident. APD is continuing to investigate the overall incident, and we will continue to keep the community informed if there are significant updates."

Aurora not welcoming to migrants

Despite being the most diverse city in Colorado, the Aurora City Council has not been welcoming to the newcomers. Council member Danielle Jurinsky ignited an uproar when she revealed Denver Mayor Mike Johnston had put up Denver migrants in an Aurora hotel. One of her employees happened to live at the hotel.

In February, the council approved an ordinance stating they would not spend any public funds on supporting migrants.