Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland issued an order Sunday, May 31, declaring a local "State of Emergency" for the City of Murfreesboro in response to protests related to the killing of black citizens by police. IN some cities, the protests have led to unlawful activities, including violence and destruction of property.
The order went into effect at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, May 31. A curfew took effect at 6:30 p.m.
Two people were arrested for violating the Emergency Curfew Order.
“As mayor, I recognize and fully support the right of people to peacefully assemble and demonstrate,” Mayor Shane McFarland said. “The City is committed to securing and protecting the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. “At the same time, others have engaged in unlawful activities that endanger peace and public safety. Safeguarding the lives of citizens, preventing significant damage to property, and protecting our law enforcement officers and emergency service providers is the reason I am declaring this local emergency.”
The declaration comes after a peaceful vigil Sunday afternoon.
Around 7 p.m., Murfreesboro Police used tear gas on protestors at the intersection of East Main Street and Middle Tennessee Boulevard. A crowd of protestors had moved from the Square to the entrance of MTSU and was blocking the intersection. According to a statement from MPD, the tear gas was sued because the group was almost hit by traffic.
One person was given medical treatment on the scene after becoming "overcome by tear gas," according to MPD. Another person was treating after fainting on the Square.
During the altercation, an armored vehicle was vandalized with a broken window, a brick thrown through window of Whiskey Dix on Square. No police were injured.
The Mayor issued the order pursuant to special emergency powers granted to local governments pursuant to state law. The order aids in the enforcement of the curfew through requests for mutual aid from other jurisdictions and by activating certain emergency-response provisions of the City Code.
