In a statement that has since been deleted, SXTCY’s organizers said that a patron whom they denied entry returned with a gun.
Following an incident outside an after hours event hosted by SXTCY and CLOSER in Los Angeles, the techno promoters evacuated the gathering and everyone is said to be safe.
“We sincerely apologize for the incident that occurred tonight,” reads a statement shared by SXTCY and CLOSER on Instagram early this morning. “Our security team denied entry to an individual who was behaving disruptively, and unfortunately, they returned with a firearm and retaliated.”
It continues: “We are incredibly thankful for our staff and security team for their swift action in evacuating everyone safely and securing the area. We are relieved to report that everyone is safe. Your safety is our top priority, and we remain committed to ensuring a secure environment for all.”
The statement was pulled offline and replaced with an almost identical one that simply said “the situation escalated” in the passage that previously mentioned a firearm. The second post was also taken down — and then, later in the day, SXTCY shared a new statement addressing that decision.
“Due to an ongoing investigation, we’ve taken down our previous post,” it reads. “Per the advice of legal counsel, we can’t comment further, but we’re grateful no one was hurt thanks to our staff’s quick action. Your safety is our utmost responsibility, and tonight’s event will continue as planned. Please remember, no pregaming on the street or in your cars. Get inside the venue as quickly as possible. Respect all staff members and those around you.”
EDM Identity reached out to CLOSER for clarification on the incident, and we have yet to hear back at the time of writing.
SXTCY gained significant traction in the Los Angeles underground following the pandemic; the outfit has booked artists like Declan James, Lorely Mur, and Shlømo to perform at its clandestine gatherings. Ditto for CLOSER, whose bills feature names like MATRAKK, TOXIC MACHINERY, and Neon Graveyard.
CLOSER and SXTCY have collaborated on numerous events in the past. Slated to perform at last night’s gathering was WNDRLST, who was set to deliver an all-night set. The address of the event was sent to ticket holders shortly before doors opened.
This is a developing story and EDM Identity will provide additional details if and when they become available.
This article has been amended to include the organizers’ third statement.