“Cleveland Police Release Video and Photos from Dangerous Street Takeovers”
New surveillance footage and images have shed light on the chaos caused by seven “street takeovers” that occurred across Cleveland last weekend. On Friday, the Cleveland Division of Police (CPD) released still images from these incidents, emphasizing the dangers posed by street takeovers to participants, onlookers, and innocent bystanders. “Safety is the top concern, and there’s an urgency to locate the suspects,” the police stated in a press release.
3News obtained video footage capturing a street takeover at the intersection of Lorain Avenue and West 25th Street in Ohio City. The footage reveals the gathering crowd beginning at 1:14 a.m., as people assemble on the sidewalks. Shortly after, two cars are seen moving against traffic flow, and by 1:16 a.m., the first donut is recorded.
Over the next 15 minutes, multiple vehicles perform donuts in the intersection, while spectators film the unfolding chaos. At 1:32 a.m., an individual carrying a box runs into the intersection and ignites fireworks. As the fireworks explode in the sky, drivers continue their reckless antics, commandeering the intersection. By 1:50 a.m., the vehicles start to disperse, and at 1:52 a.m., the first police car arrives at the scene.
In a conversation with 3News, CPD Sergeant Wilfredo Diaz addressed the police response time, explaining why it took officers longer to reach the location. “It’s important to remember that these are 2,000-pound vehicles operating in a potentially dangerous situation. Officers must approach these situations methodically and strategically to ensure their own safety,” Diaz stated. “If the officers are injured, they can’t assist effectively. So, part of the response involves ensuring that this is handled correctly, responsibly, and safely.”
When asked about future interventions during similar takeovers, Diaz refrained from disclosing specific plans but noted that the division learns from each incident. “Our division is committed to responding, and we will have officers dedicated to ensuring enforcement is carried out,” he added.
Anyone with information regarding the incidents is encouraged to contact Cleveland police at 216-623-5474.
