HOUSTON – McDonald's iconic mascot will be taking a temporary step back.
McDonald's announced Tuesday that Ronald McDonald is keeping a low profile with creepy clown sightings on the rise.
The fast food restaurant said that it is being "thoughtful in respect to Ronald McDonald's participation in community events" as a result of the "current climate around clown sightings in communities."
Clown sightings and incidents have prompted police response and several arrests around the country.
McDonald's has not provided details about how often the mascot will make appearances.