Eight teenagers have been arrested after they ambushed a Florida trampoline park as part of a viral TikTok trend.
Social media has a lot to answer for when it comes to its influence on younger users. While it has its benefits, like keeping friends and family connected and sharing useful iPhone hacks or travel tips, viral trends have shown just how quickly things can get out of hand. One such 'sunburning' trend back in 2024 had experts concerned about the increased cancer risk.
The latest incident unfolded at the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park in Brandon, Florida, on Saturday (21 March). 'Hundreds' of teenagers 'overwhelmed' the indoor entertainment venue in what authorities are describing as a coordinated 'teen takeover.' The viral TikTok trend, where massive crowds of teenagers flood malls, beaches or parking lots, has inspired copycats across the country.
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Deputies from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office attended the Trampoline Park, where the volume of teenagers was spilling out of the building and into the car park, forcing the park to shut its doors early.
Some teenagers refused repeated instructions to leave the premises, and a total of eight arrests were made for trespassing. Bodycam footage from police officers at the scene was released to the public the following week and shows the chaos that unfolded.
In one clip, an Urban Air employee in a brightly coloured T-shirt can be seen guiding officers through crowds of screaming teenagers toward the trampolines.
Urban Air issued a statement the following day, confirming that 'guest safety is its highest priority' and was relieved nobody had been injured during the incident.
Similar takeovers have hit Urban Air locations in Ohio and Georgia earlier this month, but authorities claim the 'takeovers' have been happening for years.
Following the Toledo, Ohio incident on 7 March, the company was clear that the gatherings had nothing to do with them.
“It is important to note that no teen night was planned or advertised at this location at the time of this incident,” Urban Air stated. “An unauthorized ‘teen takeover’ not created, endorsed, or affiliated with Urban Air, circulated online and falsely promoted a gathering at our park. This misleading post resulted in an unexpected influx of attendees who had the intent to cause disruption."
The company added: “Urban Air remains committed to providing a secure, family-friendly experience for our guests. We value the community’s support and will continue providing a fun, safe space for families.”