Phoenix, AZ, May 27th, 2018

This morning, Kristin Rowan, Director of Marketing, Sales, and PR and a city official held a press conference to address the incident that occurred last night and to make a special announcement.

Here’s the latest press release from Square Egg:

In 2017, a security incident during our event changed the way we plan and organize every aspect of the security plan and logistics for PCF. We spent the greater part of a year developing these plans and I’m pleased to say that they worked. Although we were hoping not to have to find out, the safety and communication plans we developed were executed without delay and, thankfully, without injury during the evacuation.

We set out this year to create a fantastic attendee experience from beginning to end. With the efficiency of the redemption and security lines, the increased security protocols, the variety and amount of food and beverage options, two blocks of outdoor activities and sponsors, new and updated programming, the diverse and unique exhibitors in the halls, and the amazing lineup of talent and guests, we believe we have done just that. Despite the incident last night and the suspension of programming, we have had an amazing event and expect today to be a great closing day of fun and exciting experiences for all our attendees.

One of our most popular events, the Masquerade Costume Contest, was interrupted last night, but we are pleased to announce that it will resume today at 4:30 in Ballroom 301. One out most anticipated events, the Meet and Greet with Greg Capullo and Scott Snyder was also interrupted. They will be signing at booth AA 1504 and AA 1500 today 10:00 a.m. and will honor all meet and greet passes from yesterday’s event. The Kids Need to Read fundraiser event was cancelled last night. Any attendee who purchased a pass for that event will be refunded but we encourage everyone to consider donating directly to Kids Need to Read. They are in booth 979 in the lower level exhibit hall. A huge thank you to the hosts of that event, the Blue Ribbon Army for all of their work and continued support. Check our Facebook page and website for additional updates throughout the day.

While we are still focusing on closing 2018, we are already looking forward to 2019. We’ve been saying a lot this year that we hear you and we’re listening. One of the things we’ve heard most is that Phoenix Comic Fest just doesn’t roll off the tongue. We heard you and we’re listening. It doesn’t sound quite right to us either. Therefore in 2019 Phoenix Comic Fest, formerly known as Phoenix Comicon will become Phoenix Fan Fusion. We look forward to another fantastic year and hope to see everyone here to Discover Your Inner Geek next memorial day weekend 2019 for Phoenix Fan Fusion!