Over the weekend, downtown Los Angeles was the scene of chaos as more than 1,000 people gathered for an illegal party, leading to extensive vandalism and assaults on police officers. The event, promoted online, took place on Saturday night (May 24) and spilled onto Washington Boulevard and Maple Avenue after midnight. Mayor Karen Bass condemned the actions, stating, “It is unacceptable under any and all circumstances,” and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.
According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, the crowd vandalized storefronts, a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) cruiser, and a Metro train. At one point, members of the crowd posed for selfies with the tagged police cruiser and train, as shown in footage from OnScene.TV. The LAPD’s Newton Division, which monitors illegal events, was alerted to the gathering and responded with support from multiple bureaus. However, officers were overwhelmed, and some were assaulted during the three-hour incident.
A report from NBC Los Angeles stated that one officer was hit in the face with a bottle and required medical attention. The crowd was eventually dispersed, but no arrests have been made. Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage and social media posts to identify suspects.
The Los Angeles Times reported that businesses near the Fashion District, including restaurants and medical clinics, were spray-painted amid the chaos. Train service was delayed as about 50 people blocked trains, and vandals spray-painted the exterior and interiors of the trains. Metro spokesperson Jose Ubaldo confirmed that no passengers or Metro employees were hurt.
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