It’s a sad fact that many music festivals are the setting for injuries, the use of tainted drugs, and accidental deaths. Miami’s Ultra 2014 was no different, resulting in over 100 attendees needing treatment from paramedics, 76 arrests, a stampede that nearly killed a security guard, and the death of 21 year old, Adonis Escoto. The festival’s return is now in question for next year.
Ultra has been going on since 1999 and is hugely popular, with tickets selling out in just seconds this year. The festival was held in Bayfront Park in downtown Miami and featured performances by Deadmau5, Tiesto, and Dillon Francis, among many others. It sounds like it was a great show for many, but unfortunately, many festival goers got out of control.
Adonis Escoto was allegedly not feeling well and was brought to his vehicle by his friends, who then left to enjoy the rest of the show. Escoto was drinking, but said to have not taken any drugs. Some think it’s possible he was drugged, but police, family and friends of his are unsure. An autopsy and toxicology report will be done to clear up questions concerning Escoto’s mysterious passing.
In response to the issues at the festival this year, Miami’s Mayor, Tomás Regalado has decided to fight against Ultra’s presence in his district. He will attempt to prohibit any further Ultra festivals. People have been discussing the controversies surrounding festivals more than ever because of the rising death toll of young adults and teens in these settings. However, while these deaths are surely tragic, unsafe drugs, not festivals, often are the cause. Perhaps the Mayor should look to drug law instead.
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