UMass Amherst Blarney Blowout Incidents: Arrests and Hospitalizations

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A crowd of students participated in the Blarney Blowout at the University of Massachusetts Amherst last weekend. This event, which is not sanctioned by the university, is related to the St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

The event is often marked by incidents involving excessive alcohol consumption. This year, 29 arrests and 23 medical transfers were recorded, exceeding the figures recorded last year.

The event took place at the Townhouse Condominiums on Meadow Street and ended around 1 p.m. Police officials reported that eight citations were issued, mostly for alcohol consumption or disorderly conduct.

These types of unauthorized events have raised concerns in the past, especially after the Blarney Blowout two years ago prompted a large number of ambulance calls, due in part to a dangerous trend of drinking alcoholic beverages known as "BORGs" (Black Out Rage Gallons), a mixture of alcohol, electrolytes, flavorings, and water. Due to the high volume of calls, neighboring municipalities were contacted for assistance.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic reduced the event's scale, it again attracted attention this year due to the violence and associated medical emergencies.

The Blarney Blowout serves as a reminder of the dangers of irresponsible drinking in large crowds, and authorities continue to work to control incidents at these events. These out-of-control parties not only jeopardize student safety but also divert emergency resources from other areas that may need them.

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Fountain: WWLP