Police in Portland shut down a street takeover early Monday morning in the Lloyd District, confiscating three handguns and ammunition during the operation.
The incident began around 1 a.m. at the intersection of Northeast 13th Avenue and Multnomah Street, where an estimated 50 to 100 individuals had gathered and blocked traffic. Authorities reported that several vehicles were parked along nearby streets, and at least one driver was performing dangerous stunts in a Ford Mustang before being detained.
Officers initially responded to two separate locations. The first was near Portland International Airport, where the crowd dispersed upon police arrival. The second scene, near Lloyd Center, showed clear signs of activity, including tire marks left on the roadway.
Police delayed their intervention until additional backup arrived, then moved in to disperse the crowd. At least four individuals were cited, and two vehicles were towed from the scene.
According to police spokesperson Mike Benner, breaking up these gatherings can be risky, as participants often flee quickly, creating dangerous conditions for officers, bystanders, and nearby residents.
Street takeovers and illegal racing events have remained an ongoing issue in Portland, particularly during warmer months. Since 2020, such incidents have led to multiple injuries and fatalities linked to crashes and gun violence.
In response to the growing problem, Oregon lawmakers passed legislation in 2023 granting law enforcement broader authority to seize and tow vehicles involved in these activities.
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