March 7 Media Update at 5:15 p.m. from Town of Amherst, UMass

AMHERST, Mass. – Town of Amherst and University of Massachusetts officials said a successful combination of extensive planning, coordinated public safety efforts and cooperative students helped ensure a safe and peaceful day in the town and on campus.

The primary goal of providing a safe environment free from any large-scale disturbances was accomplished. The Town of Amherst will maintain vigilance tonight to ensure the safety of the community.

“I want to emphasize that the combined efforts of the town, university and mutual aid partners have ensured the safety of our community. The careful planning has deterred any major issues throughout the day,” said Town Manager Paul Bockelman. “We want to thank all involved.”

Brandi Hephner LaBanc, UMass Amherst vice chancellor for student affairs, said, “I want to express the university’s thanks for everyone’s extensive preparation, as well as for the cooperation of our students.”

More than 1,500 students attended the concert, where opening act, Lil TJay performed. Headline artist Meek Mill arrived at the Mullins Center, but decided not to perform. An announcement was made to students at 1:30 p.m. and the crowd left in an orderly manner.

Hephner LaBanc noted, “Although the concert did not go as planned, students were very cooperative. We are equally disappointed in Meek Mill’s decision not to perform. Refunds will be made available to ticketholders in the near future.” 

UMass EMS treated six students at the Mullins Center. Amherst Fire Department reported two students were transported by ambulance from Mullins to Cooley Dickinson Hospital (CDH). No arrests were made at the concert.

The Amherst Police Department, which was assisted by police from a number of western Massachusetts communities and the State Police, reported about 20 arrests, largely for infractions such as noise complaints, disorderly conduct and alcohol violations. Police said gatherings across town were largely peaceful, with a majority of arrests occurring at two locations. Amherst Fire Department said three people in town were transported to CDH for alcohol-related issues, as was one student from the UMass campus.