The City of Whiting has announced that Whiting Lakefront Park and Whihala Beach will be closed on Saturday, June 6, citing public safety concerns amid reports of a planned “teen takeover” in the area.

The closure comes just one week after police responded to a large gathering of teenagers at the beach that resulted in disturbances and required law enforcement intervention. Since then, additional social media posts promoting similar gatherings have surfaced, including planned takeovers in Hobart and Merrillville.

In a statement, Whiting officials said public safety was the primary factor behind the decision to close the park and beach. Meanwhile, Whiting Police Chief Sotello announced an increased police presence throughout the city, particularly around the lakefront, beaches, and business district.

Police say there will be zero tolerance for unlawful behavior, including disorderly conduct, vandalism, and traffic disruptions. Residents and business owners are encouraged to report suspicious activity and stay alert for official updates from city and police officials.

The closure is likely to spark discussion among residents, with many questioning what can be done to prevent these increasingly organized gatherings from disrupting public spaces during the summer season.