Chaos briefly reigned in downtown Los Angeles this past weekend as a group of bicyclists allegedly ignited an explosion in a trash can near the Crypto.com Arena. According to ABC7, the Los Angeles Police Department is currently leading an arson investigation into the incident, which took place on the 1200 block of south Figueroa Street around 5 p.m. Saturday. LAPD has stated that between 30 to 40 cyclists were requested to clear the area before purportedly setting off fireworks within a trash receptacle, causing a significant fire.
Following the blast, Figueroa Street closed down between Pico Boulevard and 12th Street while authorities combed through the area. An LAPD spokesperson revealed to NBC Los Angeles that the detonation was reported just after 6:30 p.m. Saturday, after a group accidentally set off the explosion in a trash can, which they were instructed to clear a short time earlier. As a result, South Figueroa Street was enveloped in a snarl of halted cars and perplexed bystanders.
No arrests have been made, nor have there been any reported injuries according to the authorities. The size of the group and the identities of the members responsible for the firework detonation remain undisclosed. Furthermore, there has been no specification on the type of explosive used, leaving questions about the intentions and capabilities of the individuals involved.
The City News was informed by an LAPD spokesperson that while the police are investigating the area, no details about the nature of the explosive or further threats are forthcoming. They maintain that the inquiry is ongoing and active. While pursuing leads, the LAPD is appealing to the public for any information that might assist in identifying those accountable for causing Saturday's disruption.
