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FARGO, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A state of emergency has been declared for Fargo following protests that have since escalated and evidence of “substantial and dangerous level of civil disturbance” have been observed.

KFGO reports that around 6 PM, the Fargo Police Department began reporting incidents of protesters throwing water bottles at squad cars. Shortly after police issued a warning that protesters were no longer peaceful and warned to avoid downtown Fargo.

The statement was issued Saturday night by the City of Fargo. Protests were held following the recent incident in Minneapolis, Minnesota that resulted in the tragic death of George Floyd.

“[This] has given rise to protest marches and assemblies in Minneapolis and cities around the country,” the city says in their declaration. “During the course of said marches and assemblies in Minneapolis, civil disorder occurred resulting in significant destruction of public and private property by fire and other means, in looting of private property and in general civil unrest.”

Mayor Tim Mahoney declared the emergency finding the city is in imminent danger of suffering civil disturbance, disorder, riot, and other occurrence which will “seriously and substantially endanger the health, safety, and property of citizens.”

The declaration is expected to extend until the Mayor deems the threat of emergency has passed or the extent of emergency conditions no longer exist.