Unpermitted Fireworks Display Shuts Down Sixth Street Bridge in LA

Law enforcement is investigating the incident that put drivers and pedestrians at risk.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A widely circulated video on social media shows an unpermitted fireworks display on the Sixth Street Bridge in Los Angeles. The video captures dozens of people on the bridge setting off numerous fireworks, creating a makeshift fireworks show. Firefighters responded to the scene and extinguished at least two small fires. The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the incident, which the mayor called 'reckless' and dangerous for both drivers and pedestrians.

Why it matters

Unpermitted and dangerous fireworks displays pose a serious risk to public safety, especially on busy roadways like the Sixth Street Bridge. This incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement and penalties to deter such reckless behavior that can lead to injuries, property damage, and traffic disruptions.

The details

The video shows a coordinated effort, with one person heard giving directions to the group before the fireworks were set off. Firefighters responded to a rubbish fire on the 1400 block of 6th Street around 10:30 p.m. on January 27 and found smoldering debris at a couple of locations. The Los Angeles Police Department has not confirmed the date of the incident but acknowledged the dangers of illegal displays of commercial-grade fireworks.

  • The incident occurred on January 27, 2026 around 10:30 p.m.

The players

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles, who called the incident 'reckless' and dangerous.

Los Angeles Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the unpermitted fireworks display.

Los Angeles Fire Department

The fire department that responded to the scene and extinguished small fires.

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What they’re saying

“This reckless incident put both drivers and pedestrians at risk. The use of unpermitted, commercial-grade fireworks is dangerous and has no place on busy roadways.”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles (nbclosangeles.com)

What’s next

The Los Angeles Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident and may make arrests if they can identify the individuals responsible.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement and penalties to deter the use of unpermitted and dangerous fireworks displays, which pose a serious threat to public safety, especially in high-traffic areas like the Sixth Street Bridge.