Video shows Swatch psychos stampede Long Island mall for special AP release as cop pepper-sprays mob

“It went from excitement to panic in seconds,” one shopper said. “People were pushing, yelling, and suddenly you couldn’t see anything.”

The retailer involved has not issued a detailed public statement, but organizers of limited sneaker and watch-style releases have faced growing scrutiny in recent years over crowd control and safety planning.

High-demand product drops, especially those promoted through online hype culture, have repeatedly led to overcrowding incidents at malls and flagship stores across the United States. Experts say the combination of scarcity marketing and viral social media promotion often creates unpredictable turnout levels.