Celebrations in Los Angeles turned violent after the Dodgers historically clinched the 2024 World Series title against the Yankees. Despite the triumph bringing joy to many, rowdy crowds soon began causing havoc in the streets, with some even setting a bus on fire. Police reported that a dozen arrests were made early on Thursday morning, with charges including failure to disperse, receiving stolen property, and commercial burglary. In addition to the bus being set alight, there were instances of firecrackers being set off and stores being broken into. Some individuals were seen leaving a store carrying stolen sneakers.
Disturbances also included several violent crowds seizing control of entire streets downtown. Law enforcement officials were forced to use less-lethal munitions to regain control and eject the offenders from these areas. Footage also captured scenes of people standing on top of the vandalized Metropolitan Transit Authority bus, waving Dodgers banners in a highly unruly fashion. There were also aggressive acts towards law enforcement, with officers being pelted with various objects as they attempted to defuse the situation.
Officer Drake Madison, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Department, conveyed via email that the situation was both “violent” and “hostile”. Madison said over the coming days, detectives will be striving to identify those who committed crimes during the destructive postgame revelry. The overall extent of the damage inflicted on the bus and other city property is currently unknown.
Despite the unruly behavior, footage revealed not all those involved in the celebrations were acting violently. Some scenes captured joyful revelers merrily waving Dodgers banners from the top of the bus prior to its destruction. Unfortunately, the celebrations soured when individuals began breaking into stores, notably a sneaker shop, and exiting with looted footwear. At present, it remains unclear whether any bystanders or participants were harmed during the night’s chaos.
In a statement, the Dodgers announced plans to celebrate their World Series win with a parade through downtown LA on Friday, followed by a celebratory event at Dodger Stadium. However, due to complications regarding traffic and timing, the organization confirmed that fans would not have the ability to attend both events.
The Associated Press contributed to this reporting. All baseball fans are encouraged to follow Major League Baseball for further information regarding games, news, and additional updates relating to the sport.
