Florida police dissolve 1,000-person party as state coronavirus cases pass 700,000

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Police in Tallahassee, Fla. shut down a party that involved about 1,000 attendees just days after the state reported a total of 700,000 coronavirus cases since March.

Law enforcement officials said Sunday the party was held at an off-campus apartment complex near Florida State University, where cases have recently increased.

About 700 cars belonging to attendees were parked around the complex, blocking travel lanes, The Associated Press reported.

In a Sept. 8 release, university officials said they were aware of large social gatherings happening off campus.

“Administrators are disappointed to see the public health guidance provided on multiple occasions has been disregarded by many. The health and safety of everyone and the success of our fall semester depends on both personal and community responsibility,” the release reads. "FSU is again requesting local establishments and apartment complexes step in with appropriate restrictions where off-campus students are congregating.”

Florida State University reported that 1,448 students and 31 employees have tested positive for COVID-19 since Aug. 2.

Overall, the school reported a 7.61% positivity rate for the virus.

On Sept. 18, FSU President John Thrasher said students who host or attend large parties or gatherings will be subject to suspension.

According to the Florida Department of Health, the state recorded 701,302 COVID-19 cases since the onset of the pandemic and 14,037 deaths.

Cox Media Group