Florida Georgia Line concertgoers in Jacksonville sprinted when alarm sounded

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena is reviewing its policies after dozens of people said there was no communication after an alarm sounded in the middle of a show.

The alarms sent hundreds scrambling for the exits, while others stayed put because they were not sure where to go.

The company that manages the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, SMG Jacksonville, said it's reviewing safety protocols and inspecting the alarm system.

Action News Jax spoke with several people who were at the concert. Many said the Las Vegas shooting was on the top of their minds.

The night of music and fun -- headlined by Florida Georgia line -- was transformed into chaos and confusion.

“All of the sudden, an alarm goes off,” said patron Rob Gorman.

“Everyone just started clearing out,” Jenna Friedman added.

Concertgoer Michelle Reed, who is pregnant, wasn’t sure she wanted to go last night, but she and her fiancee wanted an escape to celebrate their anniversary.

Reed said a relaxing time turned into an all-out sprint.

“My fiancee grabbed my hand and he was like, ‘let's go, let's go.’  And we didn't stop, we left,” Reed said.  “We went all the way to our car and left because we didn't even want to stick around to find out what was happening.”

Back inside, patrons heard a notification that the show would go on.

"Everybody, we are safe," a man said over the intercom. "It was just a fire, smoke detector that went off. We're going to resume the show in a few minutes."

SMG Jacksonville would not take Action News Jax’s questions on-camera Friday.

They sent a statement that read, in part:

“The safety of our guests is the number one priority at all times and we pledge that commitment as we continue to review the systems and protocols in the Arena. 

"We are thankful for the collaboration of our public safety partners and personnel who did their best to work in unison to provide the appropriate response to an otherwise frightening experience for many."

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of all guests and thank our friends at Live Nation and the entire Florida-Georgia Line production for their response and for delivering Jacksonville another night of amazing entertainment.”  

Cox Media Group