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Guest Reportedly Uses Stroller as Weapon, Assaults Disney Cast Member

If you’ve visited the Magic Kingdom before, you’re likely aware that things can get quite crowded and hectic as the fireworks show approaches. Guests often claim their spots on Main Street, U.S.A. early, even sitting down, which makes it challenging for others to navigate around them. There are various locations throughout the park where visitors can enjoy a great view of the fireworks, even if they aren’t directly in front of the castle.

Certain areas of the park are cordoned off before the fireworks display, and guests are directed to find alternative routes. Most notably, Fantasyland is closed off to protect guests from falling debris. The area shuts down about an hour before the show and reopens approximately 30 minutes after it concludes.

Fantasyland in the Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

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Navigating the Magic Kingdom can be a bit tricky, especially when certain areas are closed off. However, that doesn’t justify getting angry, aggressive, or violent. Unfortunately, a recent police report reveals that this is precisely what occurred a few weeks ago, resulting in the arrest of a guest.

On October 7, 2024, an altercation occurred at the Magic Kingdom involving a guest identified as Andrew Dixon, who was visiting the theme park with his wife and child.

The incident unfolded shortly after 8 p.m., as the family was attempting to make his way towards Cinderella Castle. A Disney cast member informed the Dixon family that the area was closed, directing them to use an alternative route. This directive sparked a confrontation, with Mr. Dixon reportedly resisting the guidance provided by the cast member.

Cinderella Castle Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom
Credit: Scott Smith, Flickr

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According to police reports, Mr. Dixon expressed his displeasure at the instruction, resulting in him attempting to force his way past the Disney cast member. It was noted that he allegedly shouldered the cast member and subsequently used a stroller containing his child as a weapon, pushing it over the cast member’s feet on purpose.

The allegations against Andrew Dixon detail a physical encounter that escalated quickly. Witness reports claim that Mr. Dixon shouldered the cast member, which caused the young man to infringe upon her personal space. The police report included statements from the cast member, who stated that she “planted her feet” to maintain her position but was still pushed by Mr. Dixon.

Happily Ever After Fireworks Show
Credit: Disney

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An independent witness corroborated the cast member’s account. This witness observed the cast member redirecting traffic when the Dixon family approached, noting that she took a defensive stance about two feet in front of the family.

According to the witness, Mr. Dixon attempted to maneuver around the cast member, which culminated in the alleged assault.

As the confrontation unfolded, Mr. Dixon is reported to have made an offensive gesture as he walked away, reportedly flipping the cast member off.

Cinderella standing in front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

Following the incident, local authorities arrested Andrew Dixon and charged him with battery, a misdemeanor offense.

In response to the arrest, Mr. Dixon’s attorney has stated that they will vigorously contest the charges. The defense argues that the cast member was the aggressive party, claiming that Mr. Dixon fell victim to her actions.

In discussions about the incident, Mr. Dixon’s legal team has emphasized the importance of video evidence that they believe will absolve him of the charges. They are actively pursuing the security footage from Disney, which they hope will clearly demonstrate that Mr. Dixon did not act with criminal intent.

Disney Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

However, during the investigation, Disney officials indicated that no video of the incident exists, creating further complications for Mr. Dixon’s defense.

We do not know if Disney issued a trespass notice and banned Mr. Dixon from returning to Disney.

What do you think of Mr. Dixon using his child’s stroller as a weapon? Should he face additional charges? Let us know in the comments!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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