A Wikipedia conference in Manhattan was abruptly interrupted today when a 27-year-old man rushed the stage with a loaded firearm and pointed it at his own head, threatening self-harm in front of stunned attendees.
The incident unfolded inside the Union Square Civic Hall during the event’s opening ceremony. Organizers and attendees tackled and disarmed the man before law enforcement arrived and took him into custody. No injuries were reported.
Officials identified the suspect as Connor Weston from Ohio. He had registered for the conference and carried a sign labeling himself a “non-contact pedophile,” at one point declaring he had no intent to harm others.
Conference organizers confirmed that the event would continue under stricter security, with police present for all remaining sessions. Participants expressed gratitude for the swift response of both staff and law enforcement, which prevented the situation from escalating further.