‘You have five minutes to disperse’: Downtown Wilmington protesters clash with sheriff’s office

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A large crowd of protesters in Downtown Wilmington are being told to disperse to avoid arrest.

Out of an abundance of caution and to keep our citizens safe, Mayor Bill Saffo has issued a state of emergency in the city, in effect immediately. A curfew is in effect until 6 am. Please refrain from any non-essential activity. Will post the entire declaration shortly. Stay safe

— Wilmington, NC – PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING (@CityofWilm) June 1, 2020

The crowd began gathering Sunday evening outside City Hall and eventually filled 3rd Street. The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office and Wilmington Police both responded, with sheriff’s deputies in riot gear.

As of 9:15 Sunday night, protesters were active on Front Street.

WWAY has a crew on the scene and will have more information as it becomes available.