Nelly, Conde Cavaliers draw major crowds to Downtown Mobile despite safety concerns

Mobile, Ala. (WPMI) —

The good times were rolling Friday Night as the City of Mobile welcomed in Mardi Gras.

The streets of Downtown were filled with folks waiting to see the extravagant floats, catch throws, and fellowshipping with the community, everyone in good spirits.

“It was really fun, I got hit in the head a couple of times, but you know had a great time, might had a concussion but that's okay! Thats part of Mardi Gras," said Tori Pullom.

But the last time this many people were downtown...chaos. A mass shooting injuring 9 and killing one.

MPD was out on mounted patrol on certain areas of parade route, patrol officers were on corner posts with their lights on to deter crime as well as large generator lights were along the route to light up some of the more poorly lit areas.

One woman enjoying the parade told NBC 15 she kept her head on a swivel all night.

“Yeah, it was a little anxious but then you just- it's in the past but then you always have to think you never know what the publics thinking," said Destry Jerrell.

But other parade goers said they were not worried.

“I feel like as long as you like pay attention to your surroundings you don't gotta be concerned- you'd see something way before it happens," said Omarion Polk.

Revelers also packed Mardi Gras Park in celebration of the Carnival Season and Senior Bowl weekend, jamming away with Grammy award winning R&B artist Nelly.

The event saw a large turnout, expected by MPD.

Some revelers were hesitant to attend due to the crowded shoot-out on New Year's Eve, and the concerns due to a parade happening the same night.

Along with extra patrol units, an alcohol ban was put in place to ensure public safety as thousands of fans filled the venue.

Despite concerns revelers had a blast at both the parade and the concert.

MPD says they’ll continue having an increased police presence throughout Mardi Gras.