Florida's spring break celebrations turned chaotic last weekend, prompting a heavy law enforcement response that resulted in more than 130 arrests in Volusia County alone. Deputies with the Volusia County Sheriff's Office reported 133 arrests across Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, with 84 in the Daytona area and 49 in New Smyrna.

The incidents stemmed from unsanctioned "takeovers" of large gatherings promoted on social media that drew thousands of revelers to the beaches. Crowds panicked Saturday after reports of gunshots sent people stampeding across the sand, though no injuries were immediately confirmed from the event. Authorities responded to multiple shootings over the weekend while making the arrests, which included charges related to disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and other offenses.

Sheriff Mike Chitwood blamed social media influencers and promoters for publicizing the events, drawing massive crowds without permits. "Deputies made a total of 133 arrests on the first weekend of spring break," Chitwood stated during a March 16 briefing. He announced new safety measures, including targeting promoters legally and posting viral arrest videos to deter future chaos.

In response to the unrest, Daytona Beach declared a state of emergency on Friday and imposed a seven-day curfew for minors to curb further takeovers. The measures followed days of rowdy behavior that overwhelmed local resources.

Similar issues arose elsewhere in Florida. Miami Beach police reported 168 arrests during spring break so far, a 20% decrease from the prior year, amid a crackdown on underage drinking and partying. Videos showed officers tackling unruly spring breakers on the beach. Fort Lauderdale recorded 38 spring break-related arrests and issued more than 1,000 citations since early March.

Panama City Beach saw fewer major incidents but increased enforcement against beach alcohol violations, with police issuing warnings and doubling fines in special event zones. Officials statewide ramped up patrols, using body camera footage and social media to publicize arrests and discourage violations.

As spring break continues into late March, authorities expect sustained crowds and have urged visitors to follow local rules. Volusia County leaders expressed surprise at the scale of the takeovers but praised the rapid response that prevented worse outcomes.