Illegal Fireworks Display Plagues LA's 6th Street Bridge

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A large display of illegal fireworks was caught on camera over the weekend on Los Angeles' 6th Street Bridge, the latest in a long list of issues like copper theft, street takeovers, and vandalism that have plagued the nearly $600 million bridge since its opening in 2022.

Why it matters

The 6th Street Bridge was meant to be a 'Ribbon of Light' for Los Angeles, but has instead become a hotspot for illegal and dangerous activities that have frustrated city leaders and law enforcement. The bridge's problems highlight the challenges of maintaining public infrastructure and ensuring public safety in urban areas.

The details

The cell phone video shows dozens of people setting up multiple boxes of what looked to be fireworks, including large, commercial-grade pyrotechnics lined along the road, some propped up in traffic cones. The brilliant, but illegal, display takes place over several minutes, lighting up the night sky over the bridge as the crowd walks through the street. At the end of the video, some Los Angeles Fire Department crews are seen showing up to extinguish the smoldering remains.

• The illegal fireworks display was caught on camera over the weekend.

What’s next

It's unclear if a police report has been filed or if an investigation is underway, but the LAPD has said they are aware of the video.