Authorities arrested multiple individuals after street celebrations over the Dodgers’ World Series win led to incidents of burglary, vandalism, and fires across parts of Los Angeles.
On Wednesday night, crowds gathered near L.A. Live, where celebrations often included fireworks. The Los Angeles Police Department issued a dispersal order, but it took hours to fully clear the area.
Dressed in blue Dodgers gear, fans took to the streets to celebrate, cheering and dancing under the fireworks. Although most celebrations were spirited and peaceful, officials reported pockets of unrest in certain areas.
In downtown L.A., several businesses faced break-ins or vandalism, with no detailed reports yet available. Police noted some hostility from the crowd, with objects thrown at officers. Videos captured looting at Nike’s Jumpman L.A. store on Broadway and cars performing doughnuts at intersections.
In Echo Park, a Metro bus was set ablaze. One person was seriously injured after a firework exploded in their hand.
“Metro is disappointed and angered by the senseless act of vandalism on one of our buses following the Dodgers’ World Series win,” stated the transportation agency.
The LAPD declared four unlawful assemblies throughout the city as celebrations turned unruly in some areas.
By the night’s end, a dozen arrests were made, including seven suspects in smash-and-grab incidents at two stores. Four were linked to a break-in at Jumpman, and three to one at Foot Locker.
Despite boarding up its windows before Game 5, the Jumpman store could not deter a large crowd from breaking in.
LAPD Sgt. Bruce Bonihanh stated that police are investigating the destruction of the Metro bus and seeking those responsible.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said deputies also made arrests during the night.
“We had extra staff to ensure a safe and responsible celebration, and I’m pleased to report that most community members, true Dodgers fans, celebrated that way,” said Luna. “Unfortunately, there were a few trouble spots in the county.”
In East Los Angeles, deputies on Whittier Boulevard were attacked with fireworks; one deputy’s vest caught fire after being hit by a firework, and another was struck by a pipe and a rock. Two people were arrested.
Luna also warned against the use of fireworks, stating that two individuals were arrested for using explosive devices.
“They’re essentially mortar rounds that these individuals are using,” Luna said.
Footage from Wednesday night showed a fan, bleeding from the hand, walking away from an explosion.
Both deputies and LAPD officers faced assaults from “pockets” of people using bottles, rocks, and fireworks.
Stephanie Wiggins, the CEO of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, called the bus destruction “incredibly disappointing.” She confirmed that the operator and passengers exited the vehicle safely before it was vandalized, noting that buses like this cost between $600,000 and $700,000.
Mayor Karen Bass described the incidents as isolated, saying she expects those responsible to be held accountable. She emphasized that “the overwhelming majority of fans celebrated peacefully, joyfully, and with unity.”
Additional police will monitor the parade route Friday, according to LAPD Assistant Officer Blake Chow. He did not specify whether the Dodgers would cover the police costs, as the city faces financial constraints.
More arrests are anticipated as LAPD officials continue investigating the events of Wednesday night. In some instances, police used less-lethal munitions to disperse the crowds.
Thursday morning, workers began cleaning up the aftermath, painting over graffiti on metal shutters along Broadway and removing paint from sidewalks.
Mayor Bass noted that while there were a few disturbances, “the vast majority of celebrations were peaceful and joyful.”
“We are committed to keeping Angelenos safe, and violence of any kind will not be tolerated,” Bass said.
Downtown L.A. has previously seen unrest following both Lakers and Dodgers championships.
Los Angeles County Superior Court facilities in the Civic Center area, including courthouses on Hill, Temple, and Spring streets, will close Friday, with all scheduled matters to be rescheduled.
On Wednesday night, after initially falling behind 5-0 by the third inning, the Dodgers staged a thrilling comeback in the fifth. Falling behind again, they rallied once more in the eighth, ultimately securing the championship.
