Canucks Riot Causes Social Media Stir

June 16, 2011 | Comments | Facebook, Social Good, Twitter

The citizens of Vancouver are looking to undo the damage of the soon-to-be infamous Canucks Riot, which took place after Game 7 of the NHL Stanley Cup Finals. Canucks fans flooded the streets after a 0-4 loss against the Bruins, overturning and igniting cars, smashing storefront windows, looting and partaking in various other criminal acts. In the aftermath, vigilant Vancouver residents have taken to the web as way to organize and target efforts.

The Facebook event “Post Riot Clean-up” has garnered more than 11,000 attendees in the few hours since created. The event creators have coordinated with the Vancouver Police Department, which has permitted the event members to assist in the clean up process. The event provides its attendees with streets and locations that are in need of assistance.

The Vancouver Police Department has also played a social role in the Canucks Riot. With nearly 14,000 followers, the Vancouver Police Department Twitter account voiced its disappointment with rioting citizens:

In the hours since, the Vancouver Police Department has urged citizens to evacuate downtown, identified areas in need and thanked various groups for their assistance throughout the clean-up process.

Twitter account VancouverClean has also popped up as an updating service for those participating in the Post-Riot Clean-up Facebook event. The group has been providing positive, motivational tweets to encourage Vancouver citizens in the recovery:

But cleaning up the city is not the only concern for Vancouver citizens. The police department is encouraging Facebook and Twitter users to upload their photos and videos taken of the Canucks Riot and tag any identifiable participants where they can. Tumblr accounts have been created, including http://vancityriotcriminals.tumblr.com/, which is aiding in the identification of Vancouver rioters. In an age where everyone has a camera in their pocket, the Vancouver Police Department’s use of targeting criminals is a nod to social media and the potential it has for law enforcement.

As the hockey post-season ends with a bang, the repercussions will surely be felt as more evidence begins to surface.