Sixth Street Bridge Plagued by Vandalism, Theft After Stunning Reopening

The $588 million viaduct has faced a string of illegal activities since its debut in 2022.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The newly rebuilt Sixth Street Bridge in Los Angeles has faced a series of challenges since its grand reopening in July 2022. The $588 million viaduct, known for its striking 'Ribbon of Light' design, immediately drew dangerous illegal activity including street takeovers, drag racing, vandalism, graffiti, and people climbing its arches. In 2023, thieves stripped out seven miles of copper wiring that powered the bridge's LED lighting system, leaving sections of the structure in darkness.

Why it matters

The Sixth Street Bridge is a vital connector between the Arts District and Boyle Heights neighborhoods, and its closure or disrepair due to vandalism and theft impacts the entire community. The bridge's iconic lighting design was a key part of its award-winning engineering, so the repeated copper wire thefts have significantly diminished its visual appeal and safety.

The details

Since the bridge's opening in July 2022, it has faced a range of illegal activities. Street takeovers, drag racing, and people climbing the arches have caused damage and safety concerns. Then in June 2024, thieves stole seven miles of copper wiring that powered the bridge's LED lighting system, leaving large sections of the 'Ribbon of Light' in darkness.

  • The Sixth Street Viaduct opened in July 2022, replacing the old bridge built in 1932.
  • In 2023, the bridge won a national award for engineering achievement due to its striking lighting design.
  • In June 2024, thieves stripped out seven miles of copper wiring that powered the bridge's LED lighting system.
  • On February 18, 2026, the city's Bureau of Engineering selected Tetra Tech to relight the darkened bridge.
  • On October 21, 2025, the Los Angeles City Council gave final approval to a Metal and Theft Reward program to curb infrastructure crimes.

The players

Sixth Street Viaduct

A $588 million bridge project that opened in Los Angeles in July 2022, connecting the Arts District and Boyle Heights neighborhoods.

Tetra Tech

A global engineering firm selected by the city's Bureau of Engineering to relight and fortify the darkened Sixth Street Bridge.

Los Angeles City Council

The city government body that approved a Metal and Theft Reward program in October 2025 to address infrastructure crimes like copper wire theft.

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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

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.