(Michigan City, IN) - Washington Park in Michigan City is now closing early. Lack of social distancing and a shooting the previous weekend were among the factors cited by the mayor’s office for closing the park at 9 p.m.

Mayor Duane Parry says turn out was greater than expected during the Memorial Day weekend.

Many people at the beach and in the main parking lot did not practice social distancing.

He says there were also several disturbances, fights and a shooting that weekend.

Police and fire provide security at the park but without cooperation from the public, it’s a difficult task. Parry says hours at the park will be extended once responsible, safe behavior resumes.