Mohegan — The Barrett-Jackson Auction Co. has canceled its 5th Annual Northeast Auction of collector cars at Mohegan Sun, an event that had been scheduled for June 24-27.

In a statement, the Scottsdale, Ariz.-based company announced Monday the decision was based on the uncertainty surrounding authorization for live events during the COVID-19 pandemic in addition to the company’s efforts “to protect the health and safety of all auction participants and employees.”

“We spent a great deal of time consulting with local public health and government officials,” said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “The team at Mohegan Sun has also been a tremendous resource for us throughout this process. However, it became clear there is simply too much uncertainty about hosting a multi-day live event during this public health crisis.

“Given the incredible amount of work and time that goes into producing a Barrett-Jackson event, it unfortunately is not feasible for us to move forward in Connecticut,” Jackson said.

The Northeast Auction debuted in 2016, setting single- and multi-day attendance records for events at Mohegan Sun Arena in its first two years and establishing itself as a casino mainstay. In 2018, the 3rd Annual Northeast Auction helped christen Mohegan Sun’s Earth Expo and Convention Center, where some ancillary auction events took place.

The event returned for a fourth year last June.

“Mohegan Sun has enjoyed a great partnership with the Barrett-Jackson team and discussions for the future are ongoing,” said Jeff Hamilton, Mohegan Sun's president and general manager.

Barrett-Jackson will conduct an online auction May 8-17, and plans to announce details of a summer event as well. Barrett-Jackson’s Las Vegas Auction at the Mandalay Bay Casino and Resort from Sept. 10-12, and its Palm Beach Auction from Oct. 15-17, are still scheduled.

Details about ticket refunds for the Northeast Auction will be communicated directly to ticket holders.

b.hallenbeck@theday.com