Since the parks re-opened, guests have had mixed reactions to mask policies. Some guests are grateful for enhanced safety measures, while others view masks as nothing but an inconvenience. According to the Orlando Sentinel, the first confrontation over Walt Disney World’s mask policy occurred on August 14th, 2020. Enrico Toro, age 35, was arrested on August 14th due to accusations of hitting an Epcot security guard in the head and threatening his life.
According to the Epcot security guard, Toro, his wife, and their three children arrived to Epcot shortly before 5:00 p.m. wearing improper masks. The family then returned to their vehicle to retrieve appropriate face coverings, but upon re-entry, one child’s mask still did not fit within the guidelines. The sheriff’s report stated that Toro became frustrated and began spouting profanity. Three witnesses recalled that Toro became “irate” at the security guard. As the guard attempted to notify a supervisor, Toro snapped and hit him on the head with an “open hand.”
The report continued that Toro’s wife then intervened, eventually convincing her husband to retreat. The family returned to the parking lot. The security guard decided to press charges which led to Toro’s arrest.
Disney spokeswoman Andrea Finger released a statement:
“We expect guests to treat our cast members with courtesy and respect, and while the vast majority of guests have adapted to our new measures, this unfortunate case required law enforcement.”
There are currently no other reports of violent incidents regarding mask policies at Walt Disney World.