Masked Mob Attacks Police Cruiser During Illegal Street Takeover in Maryland

Dash cam video shows individuals blocking police vehicles and drivers performing dangerous stunts in the road

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A large group of vehicles descended on an intersection in Gaithersburg, Maryland in the early hours of February 22, 2026, shutting down the area and engaging in illegal street takeover activities. During the incident, a masked mob attacked a police cruiser with an officer inside, shattering the rear window and windshield, though the officer was not injured. Police are investigating the incident and asking the public for help identifying those responsible.

Why it matters

Street takeovers pose serious risks to participants, spectators, and other drivers, and this incident highlights the growing problem of these dangerous and illegal events in the region. The attack on the police vehicle also raises concerns about the escalating violence and disregard for law enforcement during these gatherings.

The details

According to police, the incident began around 12:39 a.m. when a large caravan of vehicles tied to takeover activity was spotted heading toward the Silver Spring central business district. Officers moved to monitor the group and close intersections, but dozens of vehicles still descended on the intersection of East West Highway and Connecticut Avenue, blocking traffic and performing high-speed 'donuts'. Dash cam video shows individuals deliberately blocking police vehicles and drivers continuing the dangerous stunts. During the confrontation, two marked police cruisers were vandalized, with one officer inside his vehicle when the rear window and windshield were smashed. No officers were injured.

  • The incident began around 12:39 a.m. on February 22, 2026.
  • Before the caravan reached Montgomery County, three handguns were recovered during traffic stops conducted by Prince George's County Police and Maryland State Police related to the gathering.

The players

Montgomery County Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident and asking for the public's help in identifying those responsible.

Maryland State Police

Responded to the scene to assist in dispersing the crowd and restoring traffic flow.

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What’s next

The Montgomery County Department of Police 2nd District Investigative Section is leading the investigation and is asking for the public's help identifying those responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing problem of dangerous and illegal street takeovers in the region, and the increasing willingness of participants to engage in violent and destructive behavior, even toward law enforcement. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and community cooperation to address this public safety issue.