Background
Pioneer Square is often described as the center of Seattle's nightlife and was the site of Mardi Gras celebrations since 1977. More than 90 civilians and 30 officers were injured there during disorders in 1979.
Festivities on the Friday and Saturday leading up to 2001's Fat Tuesday were quickly broken up by police. The city's bicycle patrol was at the forefront of squashing festivities. This led to complaints from event goers. Up to 2,000 people gathered in the neighborhood on Sunday evening. Seven people were arrested as 200 police in riot gear disbanded the crowd with pepper spray, rubber bullets, and concussion grenades. Celebrations in 2001 were violent in other US cities, including Austin and Philadelphia.
Read more about this topic: Seattle Mardi Gras Riots
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