A joyous celebration Wednesday night, Oct. 30, on the streets of Los Angeles for the Dodgers’ World Series victory turned into bedlam and chaos. Revelers clashed with police with some throwing projectiles and fireworks at officers.
Authorities called in extra resources, and the LAPD sent out an alert on social media about a “hostile crowd” surrounding a bus not far from Dodger Stadium around 12:35 am local time.
The group set the bus on fire. According to officials, the driver and five passengers safely evacuated before the fire ignited.
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority released a statement saying, “Metro is disappointed and angered by the senseless act of vandalism on one of our buses following the Dodgers World Series win.”
Police also reported looting at several stores, with images showing people walking out with sneakers from a Nike store. The LAPD advised people to “leave the area immediately” and “follow all officers’ orders.”
Early Thursday morning, Oct. 31, on X, the LAPD Central Division said several dispersal orders had been given and arrests had been made. Police haven’t yet said how many people were taken into custody.
Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement shortly after the Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees in Game 5 to clinch their eighth World Series title. The mayor congratulated the Dodgers and sent out a warning for anyone thinking of causing trouble saying, “violence will not be tolerated.”
Despite the incidents, the celebration is continuing. The Dodgers will hold a championship parade in downtown Los Angeles Friday, Nov. 1, followed by a ticketed event for fans at Dodger Stadium.