March 3 Media Update 3:15 p.m. from Town of Amherst, UMass

AMHERST, Mass. – The Town of Amherst, the Amherst Police Department and their regional law enforcement partners are reporting that the community is safe. Authorities say that

call volume increased midday with pockets of activity in South Amherst and the area of lower Main Street.

Police have responded to eight noise complaints and two reports of fights. Officers also dispersed a large gathering near South Prospect Street and Northampton Road.

One person was arrested for assault and battery on a police officer and disorderly conduct, but police say people have been cooperative with officers.

The objectives of the Town of Amherst, its police department and regional partners remain to ensure the safety of the community, safety of first responders and protection of private property. The Amherst Police Department is continuing to monitor events through the afternoon.

Police report that foot traffic is heavier than usual downtown, and shops and restaurants are open for business.

At UMass Amherst, approximately 3,700 students have attended the concert in the Mullins Center, where the third act of Mullins Live went on at 2:32 p.m.

UMass Police took two students into protective custody at the Mullins Center.

The Amherst Fire Department triage unit, in conjunction with UMass Emergency Medical Services, has had 18 patient contacts at the Mullins Center. Four were taken by ambulance to Cooley Dickinson Hospital for alcohol-related issues and one for hypothermic symptoms. An ambulance responded to another call elsewhere on campus, but no transport was required.

The next media update will be about 5 p.m.