LOS ANGELES, CA – What was supposed to be a massive social media photo shoot turned into a major police sting on Sunday, resulting in the seizure of dozens of high-end vehicles inside the Los Angeles River Channel.
The Police Raid Near Cypress Park
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Street Racing Task Force descended upon the river channel near Cypress Park after a flyer on social media promoted a meetup at the 400 block of North San Fernando Road.
In total, authorities impounded 72 vehicles, including exotic sports cars, souped-up trucks, and motorcycles.
Arrests And Citations Issued
The operation led to numerous citations and multiple arrests as flatbed tow trucks lined up to haul the vehicles away. According to the LAPD:
- 2 Felony Arrests: Two individuals were booked for carrying a concealed firearm inside a vehicle.
- 83 Misdemeanor Citations: Dozens of drivers and onlookers were cited for trespassing and loitering.
Drivers Claim Innocence
While aerial and social media footage showed cars lining the riverbed, several drivers insisted they were only there for photography. Some admitted that a few drivers were doing burnouts earlier, but claimed those individuals left before police arrived.
Vehicles enter the LA River channel illegally, as it is a designated flood control facility. Drivers caught inside the zone face heavy financial penalties. Affected motorists reported that their vehicles are being held for up to 30 days, which could cost around $3,000 in impound fees to recover.
Why The Area Is Restricted
The City of Los Angeles explicitly states that the LA River channel is closed to unauthorized motorized vehicles. While certain banks and bike paths are open for public recreation, the actual riverbed remains restricted for safety and flood control management.
