Woman says lit firecracker burned her calf as crowds left River Market event; LRPD still reviewing reports

Brooke Ali Kay Chandler says a lit firecracker struck her leg and burned through her clothing as she and her family left the Pops on the River event Saturday at the River Market, leaving a burn on her calf and prompting calls for better crowd control.

"By the time I realized what was happening, the only thing I was concerned about was keeping them safe," Chandler said, describing a chaotic rush as people fled after explosive devices were thrown into crowds.

Tamara Knight, a reporter for THV 11, said Chandler and her family were among thousands gathered at the amphitheater for what the report described as a celebration of "America's 250th birthday" when the disturbance began. Knight and Chandler said multiple people of different ages threw firecrackers along Markham Street and from the Main Street Central Arkansas Library parking area, scattering explosives across sidewalks and parking spaces.

"You couldn't even tell who was throwing them because it was different individuals of all shapes, sizes, ages," Chandler said. She described throwers operating from the parking area and said the situation left people unable to run or walk safely.

Chandler said one firecracker hit her leg, burning through her clothing and leaving a burn to her calf. She described the panic of families running away and the trauma that followed, saying the experience has made her reluctant to attend similar events.

Chandler also criticized the police response, saying, "Probably the most shocking experiences was noticing the lack of emergency on behalf of LRPD. And their unwillingness to protect and serve." Knight reported that she asked LRPD for comment; the department told her it is still working on police reports from the weekend and that updates will be provided when available.

No arrests, charges, or formal police findings were reported in the segment. Knight said she will provide updates as LRPD releases its reports.