Los Angeles erupted into celebration after the LA Dodgers clinched their second World Series title in five years, following a nail-biting win over the Yankees. Fireworks illuminated the night sky as thousands of fans poured into the streets to celebrate the victory.
However, the festivities quickly took a turbulent turn in parts of the city, with reports emerging of fires and looting. Police donned riot gear, swiftly moving to contain pockets of chaos as celebrations escalated into unrest.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), projectiles were thrown at officers, and photos on social media showed scenes of looting and flames flickering along certain blocks.
LAPD Urges Caution Amid Reports of Unrest
The LAPD took to social media to caution the public. In a message on X (formerly Twitter), the department announced, “Various projectiles are being thrown at LAPD Officers in the area of Olympic & Grand. Extra resources are responding to that area to assist. If you are on the street, at or adjacent to that intersection, leave the area immediately & follow officers’ orders.”
In another tweet, LAPD reported looting in the area around 8th and Broadway, warning residents to steer clear of the affected blocks. A “hostile” crowd was reported near 9th and Grand in Downtown LA, prompting police to issue a dispersal order for what they deemed an “unlawful assembly.” Instances of fireworks and projectiles being thrown at officers were reported, with additional law enforcement dispatched to manage the situation.
Mayor Karen Bass and Kamala Harris Address the Celebrations
LA Mayor Karen Bass, while congratulating the Dodgers on their historic win, made it clear that violence and disorder would not be tolerated. In a statement posted shortly after the game, she declared, “As we celebrate this achievement tonight and in the coming days, violence will not be tolerated. LAPD is currently on tactical alert and has activated a strategic plan to protect communities and businesses, which includes proactive deployment and a coordinated strategy with regional partners.”
Meanwhile, Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris shared her own message, congratulating the Dodgers and the city of Los Angeles on social media, adding a message of unity for the team’s passionate fan base.
While certain areas saw scenes of unrest, the majority of fans celebrated peacefully, waving Dodgers flags and cheering on their team into the early hours.
