Denver Zoo Closes Early Amid City Park Teen Gatherings, Police Increase Patrols

The Denver Zoo will close early at 1 p.m. on Saturday and open earlier at 7:30 a.m. due to concerns about a planned 'City Park takeover' event involving large groups of teenagers. This decision follows a recent similar gathering at The Shops at Northfield where around 300 teens engaged in fights and disturbances, prompting increased police involvement. The Denver Police Department is dedicating significant resources to monitor social media and maintain safety at City Park during the event, emphasizing potential consequences for violent or destructive behavior. Zoo officials, while not having received specific threats, chose to prioritize safety for their 2,500 animals and visitors by adjusting hours in coordination with law enforcement. Other local institutions like the Denver Museum of Nature & Science will remain open but are also coordinating with authorities to ensure visitor safety. The ongoing concern stems from a series of social media posts promoting such takeovers at various metro Denver locations throughout the summer.