Violence Disrupts World Pride Celebration in Dupont Circle
In a stark contradiction to the spirit of celebration, the World Pride event in Washington, D.C.’s iconic Dupont Circle took a dark turn Saturday evening as violence erupted. Reports indicate that two individuals were stabbed and one man suffered a gunshot wound.
Earlier that day, D.C. Democratic leaders had successfully pressured the Trump administration to dismantle safety fencing around Dupont Circle National Park. This fencing, which had been erected for safety during previous events, was removed just hours before the festivities commenced.
Spotted! The fence is coming down at Dupont Circle for good this time! #HappyPride ️ pic.twitter.com/DzcGG1HVqd
— Washingtonian Problems (@WashProbs) June 7, 2025
Follower on insta sent me this.
The illegal homophobic fences at Dupont Circle are coming down! pic.twitter.com/405IYUqwRv— @DCHomos (@DCHomos) June 7, 2025
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser chimed in on the removal of the fencing, declaring, “Great news, DC! Dupont Circle is reopening today for WorldPride 2025. We thank the National Park Service for their partnership,” as she celebrated the park’s return to public access.
Great news, DC! Dupont Circle is reopening today for WorldPride 2025.
We thank the National Park Service for their partnership, and below is our joint statement: pic.twitter.com/dKkphpCP9w
— Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) June 7, 2025
However, the celebratory atmosphere quickly dissipated as WJLA-TV reported on the chaos that ensued when gunfire was heard near Dupont Circle, prompting crowds to flee for safety. D.C. officers swiftly responded, launching an investigation to apprehend those responsible.
DUPONT CIRCLE SHOOTING Crowds ran towards shelter when they heard gunshots near Dupont Circle following the WorldPride celebrations. Officers quickly responded to the scene and are searching for suspects. pic.twitter.com/32mDMyaxM8
— 7News DC (@7NewsDC) June 8, 2025
In the hours leading up to the violence, tension was palpable. WUSA-TV reporter Spencer Allan Brooks shared images from an earlier stabbing incident, illustrating the tragic turn of events in a space meant for joy and unity.
Breaking: stabbing at Dupont Circle, which was reopened this morning. Two people stabbed.
Police are now clearing the park. https://t.co/6yxwuZVPTP pic.twitter.com/7woSN1GONG— Spencer Allan Brooks (@SpencerSays) June 7, 2025
Just a day prior, D.C. City Councilmember Zachary Parker had expressed his frustration with the National Park Service for considering the park’s closure ahead of the celebrations. He stated, “I am infuriated by the National Park Service proceeding with closing Dupont Circle Park ahead of this weekend’s WorldPride celebrations,” showcasing the political tensions surrounding the event.
I am infuriated by the National Park Service proceeding with closing Dupont Circle Park ahead of this weekend’s WorldPride celebrations. See my full statement pic.twitter.com/I9RgxkQiwF
— Councilmember Zachary Parker (@CMZParker5) June 6, 2025
In a twist of fate, Parker later celebrated the park’s reopening, describing it as a triumph for the LGBTQ+ community and a testament to the power of advocacy. “This is a win for all of us—especially for the LGBTQ+ community—and a powerful reminder of what speaking truth to power can accomplish. Happy Pride, everybody!” he tweeted.
I’ve received confirmation that the gates at Dupont Circle Park are coming down. This is a win for all of us—especially for the LGBTQ+ community—and a powerful reminder of what speaking truth to power can accomplish.
Happy Pride, everybody!
— Councilmember Zachary Parker (@CMZParker5) June 7, 2025
In a prior report by WTOP, the National Park Service had outlined the rationale behind the temporary closure, citing public safety concerns stemming from the anticipated large crowds. Kevin Griess, superintendent of the National Mall and Memorial Park, stated the closure was necessary to “secure the park, deter potential violence, reduce the risk of destructive acts and decrease the need for extensive law enforcement presences.”
This decision, however, faced backlash and led to a series of public discussions about the balance between safety and celebration.
As the dust settles on this chaotic event, it raises critical questions about urban safety, the responsibilities of local governance, and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in public spaces. The juxtaposition of a celebration turned violent serves as a powerful reminder of the societal challenges that persist, even in moments meant for joy and unity.
MPD Chief Pamela Smith has arrived here at DuPont Circle after two men were stabbed and another man was reportedly injured in a shooting this evening.@wusa9 pic.twitter.com/3RP5y9wtxy
— Melissa Y. Kim (@melissaykim) June 8, 2025
Video coverage of the unfolding events has been provided by WRC-TV, adding another layer to the complex narrative surrounding this year’s World Pride celebration.
