‘Freaknik’ Party Held in Bolivar Ends in Gunfire
A Bolivar street party ended in gunfire just after 11 p.m. on Saturday evening. The “Freaknik party”, which was advertised through social media for adults 18+ as “The Freakiest Party of the Year”, was held in the Frog Town community of Bolivar on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
According to Bolivar City Councilman Chris Williams, “Reports indicate that the party resulted in multiple injuries from people being shot and trampled, as well as damage to property including a church, homes, and vehicles struck by gunfire. This reckless behavior left many of our residents fearing for their safety, ducking and dodging bullets in their own homes. While the party was hosted on private property, it unintentionally overflowed into our city streets and spanned several blocks in the Frog Town community, blocking roadways, private drives, and business parking lots in the area.”
Williams continued, “Those who think they can come into our community from neighboring jurisdictions and commit egregious acts of violence and then go back can rest assured they will be held accountable. As your city councilman, I am committed to using every resource at my disposal to ensure the safety and security of our citizens and visitors alike. I will continue discussions with local leaders, law enforcement, and community members regarding this incident.”
Freaknik parties, which have now become synonymous with traffic and safety concerns, and women’s attire bordering public nudity, have been banned in some cities. The event has history that dates back to 1982 when it was held in Atlanta, Georgia and sponsored by a student group on the campus of Spelman College as a challenge to another campus student group. The original name, “Freaknic”, inspired by the popular song “Le Freak” by the music group Chic, was a combination of the word Freak and the word picnic, and the event was planned as a community cookout with the goal of being the “largest end-of-the-school-year party”. Over the years, the event grew in size and popularity, which eventually caused safety concerns. In 2010, Freaknik was officially banned by former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed who stated anyone attempting to organize any “Freaknik-related event” would be sued.
Click here to read a statement by the City of Bolivar Mayor Julian McTizic.
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