ORLANDO, Fla. — A downtown Orlando nightclub became a scene of chaos Wednesday night when authorities said someone set off fireworks during a concert, injuring several people.
Several people said they were burned by the fireworks at the Backbooth club on Pine Street as a rapper named Stitches began his show.
"As soon as we walked into the crowd, fireworks started going off. One exploded on my knee, my elbow, my hand and foot," said injured patron Chelsea Zedar. "I know I was going to a slightly shady concert, but didn't know exactly what I was getting myself into."
Zedar said she received minor injuries as some type of fireworks exploded in the audience, and then a fight broke out.
"About 10 to 15 guys started to brawl and throw fists. I got thrown down in the middle of that," said Zedar.
Orlando police said several people were taken away by ambulance. Those hospitalized are expected to be OK.
The club had to be evacuated by firefighters.
Some witnesses said could deter them from events downtown.
"Downtown has become a little hectic and dangerous. I just don't want to be down there," said witness Kaydi Devlin.
Some patrons question why a club would hire acts that promote violence.
"Stabbings, shootings and what have you, and why bring that drama into the city while we're trying to grow it?" said Devlin.
Witnesses told WFTV that firefighters were at the scene in minutes. The club is about a block from the city's fire rescue headquarters.
Authorities said they are still working to find the person or people responsible.
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WFTV
