2012 Angel’s Night in Detroit

Are you planning to help patrol the streets?

Many Detroiters are familiar with the Angel’s Night legend. What was once a night of devastation to our great city, is now a night where local volunteers come together to patrol the streets to help prevent arson fires.

Devil’s Night to Angel’s Night

Angel’s Night has only been around since the mid-90s. Before that, it was known as Devil’s night and dated back to the 1940s. This night was the night where criminal behavior skyrocketed and according to New York Times:

“The peak year for the three-day period was 1984, when 810 fires were reported.”

In 2011, there were only 94 fires reported by the Free Press. While 94 is down from 1984’s 810 fires, it is still up from the average day in Detroit (20-25 fires).

The Reduction in Fires

The reduction in the amount of fires can be linked to Detroit changing from Devil’s night to Angel’s night and the tens of thousands of volunteers that watch over the community.

This year, while walking about town, you may see 3 foot eyes staring at you. These eyes are warning you:

This Building is Being Watched: Stop Halloween Arson,” and ask people to call 911 if they see something suspicious.

Angel’s Night Curfews

If you have or are a minor 17 years old or under in the Detroit area, make sure to pay attention to the curfew that will be put in place. Right now, the City of Detroit website tells us pending the City Council approval, the curfew is as follows:

  • Monday, October 29th 2012 – Curfew is from 6 p.m.
  • Tuesday, October 30th 2012 – Curfew ends 6 a.m. and starts again at 6 p.m.
  • Wednesday, October 31 2012 – Curfew ends 6 a.m.

 

Angel’s Night Video