What began as Saturday night Fourth of July festivities in Newport Beach spiraled into chaos on the Balboa Peninsula, as large groups of revelers clashed along the waterfront. Police moved in after reports of fireworks being set off and fights along the boardwalk, and the unrest left several officers injured along with damage to nearby businesses and streets. Residents said the scene was a far cry from the family-focused events the city had promoted for America’s 250th anniversary.
Video Captures Crowds Flooding The Peninsula
Video posted to local outlets shows crowds streaming down the boardwalk, with fireworks going off in tightly packed areas and scuffles breaking out in the middle of the throngs, according to CBS News Los Angeles. The clips spread quickly after the main fireworks display wrapped up, and news crews used them to show how fast the celebrations unraveled.
Police Report Mass Arrests, Officers Hit By Fireworks
Newport Beach police said they were first called to the peninsula around 7 p.m. as people began lighting illegal fireworks and fighting, and by Sunday, officials said at least 100 people had been taken into custody, according to KABC/ABC7 Los Angeles. Authorities said some revelers threw fireworks at officers and that several members of law enforcement were injured, adding that the hurt officers are expected to recover.
City Had Stepped Up Enforcement Before The Holiday
The turmoil unfolded despite a city plan that expanded restricted "safety enhancement" zones, tripled fines for certain infractions and called for roughly 200 sworn officers and mutual-aid support to patrol the peninsula, according to the Los Angeles Times. Officials had also set up mobile booking and given officers authority to temporarily close streets in an effort to keep crowds under control.
Investigation Ongoing As Peninsula Braces For Fallout
Police say the incident remains under investigation and that they have not released a final arrest count, per KABC/ABC7 Los Angeles. City leaders signaled that enforcement around the Balboa Peninsula will stay heightened in the days following the holiday while authorities review video evidence and process the arrests.
