Ricky Martin forced to halt concert after frightening crowd incident

A Ricky Martin concert in Montenegro was temporarily stopped after someone in the crowd released tear gas or pepper spray, sending fans scrambling for safety.

The singer had been performing at an outdoor concert celebrating Montenegro's Independence Day when the show was abruptly halted.

According to a statement issued by Martin's publicist, "an individual discharged tear gas toward the stage", prompting concertgoers to move away from the area while medical assistance was provided to those affected.

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"As a precautionary measure, Ricky Martin and his entire team immediately exited the stage while security personnel and local authorities worked to contain the situation and ensure the safety of those in attendance," the statement said.

Videos posted online appeared to show audience members coughing and leaving the venue as security responded.

Describing the chaos at the outdoor event, a concertgoer took to Instagram to detail the sudden panic.

They explained that the crowd began shoving as the scent of pepper spray filled the air, prompting a mass exodus of attendees covering their mouths to protect themselves.

"Suddenly, people started pushing each other, and we smelled pepper spray. Many people quickly covered their mouths and left the area.

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"I don't know if there's still anyone in the area right now. I didn't see what the police did. I can hear that the concert has started again, but I left the area. I hope everyone is OK."

Despite concerns from members of his team, Martin, 54, later returned to the stage after authorities confirmed it was safe to continue the concert.

The publicist said the singer resumed the performance "to fulfil his commitment to his fans".

Martin and his team were not injured.

As the Los Angeles Times reports, it remains unclear if the substance released was tear gas or pepper spray. Both can cause eye irritation and breathing difficulties when dispersed in crowds.

Martin's concert was held to mark 20 years since Montenegro's renewed independence.

The incident comes as the 'Livin' la Vida Loca' singer prepares for a mammoth European tour across Italy, Germany, Switzerland and Poland.

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