The word of the night is density, as in managing crowd density here in the 500 block of State Street. Police have set up these pedestrian roadblocks to prevent people from gaining access to the area where the trouble usually starts.

These snow fences placed on Frances St. were exit only,
requiring the crowd to take the long way around to hit State Street.
They were designed to keep the crowd moving and prevent too many people from packing into this area.

Of course that didn't slow down those that came to party.

"We're the out of towners. We love coming here."

Police were kept busy making arrests...235 on the night.
Once the cuffs were on it was off to the bus and a trip to the jail.

Of course, some people came dressed for the occasion.
But most people came for the riot, either to participate or to capture the moment on video.

"Is there going to be a riot? Hopefully."

"Most likely there is every single year."

"Everybody's kind of waiting. It's come to be expected now."

Showing creativity and practicality, some people incorporated a gas mask into their costume... and they didn't half to wait that long.

Police tried to clear out the crowd even before bartime, but when they wouldn't leave on their own they got suited up and started spraying.

It didn't take long for the crowd to panic and start moving.

After pushing the crowd off State Street, they pushed them off the side streets.

Madison's Mayor called the night a limited success saying at least there were no injuries and no property damage.

"We did have to deploy pepper spray for the fourth year in a row so I'm disappointed about that."

Cieslewicz applauded the planning and execution of police and lamented the actions of the crowd.

"We continue to attract a group of people who are hell–bent on having a riot."

Cieslewicz says the city needs to have a discussion about whether the Halloween celebration should continue.

He's already made up his mind.

"If you could make the decision would you want to hold this event next year? No, definitely not. I would eliminate the event if I could."

So yet another Halloween on State Street ends with gas masks and pepper spray. I'm sure tomorrow they'll start working on the plan for next year.