SAN ANTONIO — Two people were arrested at Fiesta De Los Reyes downtown Wednesday night for carrying a weapon, police said.
The incident happened at Market Square around 10:41 p.m. Wednesday night.
Police said witnesses flagged down officers working at the Fiesta and pointed out two men carrying guns. Both suspects were detained and officers recovered the firearms they were carrying. The suspects, ages 21 and 19, were both charged with unlawful carrying of a weapon.
No one was injured in the incident, which was separate from a shooting that unfolded at the same event Wednesday night. Police say a man was shot after an argument near a performance stage, and later taken to the hospital in critical condition. No arrests have yet been made in that shooting.
SAPD gave an update on safety on heels of these incidents Thursday. In a news conference, Deputy Chief Hector Salas explained the rules regarding weapons at Fiesta.
"Several Fiesta events such as Market Square and NIOSA have prohibited carrying weapons on their property," Deputy Chief Salas said.
He said there are signs around Market Square to indicate that weapons are not allowed on the property.
He said that the department prepared months in advance to staff each event with safety in mind.
"In preparation of Fiesta, we made sure that each event was staffed with plenty of officers to make sure it is safe," Deputy Chief Salas said. "We are out there in full force...If you see something, say something, Report suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately."
Asked about the possibility of introducing metal detectors at Market Square, Salas said it could happen in future Fiestas.
"But as far as right now," he added, "Market Square is an open event. It's intended to be a fun, family event so that people can go out and enjoy Fiesta."