UPDATED: Fight at Orland Park Sky Zone leads to 4 arrests, possible revocation of business license
OP police observed approximately 800 children at the business, exceeding fire code capacity limit
By Jon DePaolis
ORLAND PARK, Ill. – A fight inside a Sky Zone Trampoline Park Saturday, Sept. 12, led to four arrests and possibly severe consequences for the Orland Park business.
Orland Park police responded to a report about a fight inside the business late in the evening, according to a community alert posted to the department’s Facebook page. Once officers arrived on scene, they observed that a “lock-in” was taking place.
“Officers arrived and shut down the event,” the community alert stated. “Everyone in attendance, including juveniles, proceeded to the parking lot and were directed by officers to arrange for rides home. Small disruptions occurred in the parking lot, therefore, Orland Park officers along with officers from neighboring agencies restored peace. Officers remained until everyone left.”
Mayor Keith Pekau, who was reached by phone Sunday, Sept. 13, said there were a total of four arrests made as part of the police response to the incident. Three juveniles were arrested in connection to fighting, while one adult was arrested for driving under the influence.
Pekau said that while the business was not conducting an “overnight” lock-in, it was allowing the juveniles to stay until 1 a.m.
“Based on our accounts right now, there were over 800 children in a place that has a fire code safety [limit] of [much less],” Pekau said.
The mayor also said assistance was requested from other police departments to help manage the situation, because of the number of children needing to be picked up from the business.
As a result of the incident, the Orland Park business – located at 66 Orland Square Drive – may face more than just citations or fines.
“We are taking steps to determine whether or not this merits revocation of their business license,” Pekau said.
UPDATE: On Monday, Sept. 14, Pekau said the Village confirmed that at least 842 participants were present during the incident, not including staff or parents. He said the building’s occupancy limit is 682.