Teen Shot During Downtown L.A. Street Takeover

LAPD investigating shooting at illegal street racing event that left 18-year-old victim in stable condition

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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An 18-year-old was wounded Saturday when gunfire broke out during an illegal street takeover at 18th and Main streets in downtown Los Angeles. The teen was taken to a hospital and listed in stable condition, while police moved in to lock down the intersection and start investigating the shooting.

Why it matters

Street takeovers, where drivers block intersections to perform dangerous stunts, have become an ongoing issue in Los Angeles, often leading to fires, property damage, and violent incidents. This latest shooting highlights the public safety risks associated with these illegal events.

The details

According to LAPD, officers in the area heard shots and found one person suffering from at least one gunshot wound. No arrests were immediately made, and investigators said it was too early to determine what sparked the gunfire or whether it was gang-related. The intersection of 18th and Main has become a well-known hotspot for these sideshow-style takeovers in recent years.

  • The shooting occurred on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • In June 2024, another street takeover event at the same intersection resulted in two cars being set ablaze.

The players

LAPD

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the shooting incident and gathering evidence, including surveillance footage and witness accounts, to determine what happened and who was responsible.

Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office

The District Attorney's Office has pushed for tougher enforcement and closer coordination with police agencies to crack down on organized street takeovers, warning that organizers, drivers, and even spectators can face a range of consequences.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

Detectives with the LAPD's Central Division are expected to follow up on tips, hunt for additional witnesses, and gather more surveillance footage that could help them identify the shooter.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing public safety concerns surrounding illegal street takeovers in Los Angeles, which have repeatedly led to violence, property damage, and the need for increased law enforcement efforts to address the problem.