On Tuesday, June 30, 2026, just before midnight, personnel from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to Whittier Boulevard between Arizona Avenue and Simmons Avenue in East Los Angeles, as well as surrounding streets, to maintain public safety, preserve order, and manage crowds following the FIFA World Cup match between Mexico and Ecuador.
Years before the FIFA World Cup, the Department developed comprehensive operational plans in anticipation of large celebrations throughout Los Angeles County. The Department coordinated closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to ensure public safety at Los Angeles Stadium of Inglewood, training sites, fan zones, watch parties, and other anticipated gathering locations.
Sheriff’s Response Team (SRT) personnel, patrol deputies, and specialized units were strategically deployed to support safe celebrations while ensuring a rapid response to emerging public safety concerns. SRT personnel are highly trained to manage large-scale celebrations, demonstrations, civil unrest, and other planned events. Their specialized training includes de-escalation, crowd management, coordinated response tactics, and the use of specialized equipment, while protecting public safety and respecting individuals’ constitutional rights.
Following Mexico’s victory, several hundred people gathered along Whittier Boulevard to celebrate. As the crowd at the intersection of Whittier Boulevard and Arizona Avenue grew, the atmosphere became increasingly volatile.
During the incident, two deputies were struck by explosive devices, and a third deputy was struck by an object believed to be a stick thrown from within the crowd. As the violence escalated, individuals threw glass bottles, rocks, and other dangerous objects at deputies, creating a significant risk to law enforcement personnel and community members. Additional deputies and countywide resources were deployed to restore order and protect the public.
It should be noted that a consumer fireworks display in California contains no more than approximately 50 milligrams of pyrotechnic material, which is roughly the equivalent of just over two grains of rice. Devices containing greater amounts of pyrotechnic material are classified as explosive devices rather than consumer fireworks.
Three deputies sustained injuries during the incident. One deputy was struck near the eye by a thrown object, while two others were injured after being struck by explosive devices. All three deputies were treated for their injuries and later released.
Through investigative efforts, deputies identified and arrested two suspects: Adam Bahena, an 18-year-old resident of East Los Angeles, and a juvenile male from Los Angeles. Both were arrested for Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Peace Officer after they were observed throwing glass bottles at members of the Sheriff’s Response Team.
“I’m grateful our deputies were able to return home to their families that night without suffering more serious injuries,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna. “People have every right to celebrate with family and friends, and we want those celebrations to be safe and enjoyable for everyone. What occurred Tuesday night crossed the line from celebration to criminal violence. Throwing bottles, rocks, explosive devices, or any other dangerous objects at our deputies, or anyone else, is completely unacceptable. Our deputies are there to protect the community, and they should not be assaulted for doing their jobs. If you assault our deputies or endanger others who are celebrating responsibly, we will identify you, arrest you, and hold you accountable.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department remains committed to protecting every person’s right to celebrate peacefully while ensuring the safety of our communities. We will not tolerate violence, assaults, or the destruction of property. We encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly, respect one another, and obey the law so these events remain safe for everyone. Deputies will continue to be strategically deployed throughout Los Angeles County for Mexico’s next World Cup match on Sunday to help ensure safe celebrations while maintaining public order.
Anyone who witnessed assaults on deputies or members of the public, or who has photos or video that may assist investigators, is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Department at (562) 946-7893. Those wishing to remain anonymous may contact “Crime Stoppers” by calling (800) 222-TIPS (8477), submitting a tip through the P3 Tips mobile app, or visiting http://lacrimestoppers.org.
Forwarded by:
Sheriff's Information Bureau
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
211 West Temple Street
Los Angeles California 90012
http://www.lasd.org
213-229-1700
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Robert G. Luna, Sheriff
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
