What started as a complaint about marijuana smoke on the National Mall turned into a bruising encounter near one of the country's most iconic landmarks on Wednesday evening, according to U.S. Park Police.
Confrontation Leads To Scooter Strike
U.S. Park Police said a person approached three people riding scooters near the Washington Monument and confronted them about smoking marijuana. The riders then struck the person from behind with their scooters, according to WJLA.
The victim ended up with minor cuts, officials said, but declined medical treatment at the scene and was not taken to a hospital. Park Police have opened an active search for the scooter riders and are asking anyone who saw what happened to step up.
Federal Pot Rules Still Rule The Mall
The clash played out in a place where the rules on marijuana are far stricter than in the surrounding city. Pot possession and use remain illegal on federal property, including the National Mall, under federal regulations and the National Park Service's rules for the park.
The National Park Service's Superintendent's Compendium, updated on Jan. 13, 2026, spells out smoking and controlled substance restrictions that apply in memorial restricted areas and gives park authorities the power to enforce them, according to the National Park Service. In practice, that means behavior that might be legal under local law can still run afoul of federal rules once you step onto the Mall.
Park Police Seek Tips On Scooter Trio
So far, authorities have not announced any arrests in the case. The search for the scooter riders is ongoing, and investigators are reviewing video and talking with witnesses, WJLA reports.
U.S. Park Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact them. They have not released descriptions or images of the suspects to the public.
