It seems people are really enjoying themselves.
A group of amateur pyrotechnics decided to put on an extravagant, yet illegal, fireworks display on the Sixth Street Bridge in Los Angeles, prompting criticism from one of Mayor Karen Bass’ opponents.
A video that became popular on Instagram around February 13 claimed to showcase a “safely orchestrated” fireworks event on the bridge linking downtown Los Angeles with Boyle Heights. However, the footage revealed fireworks raining down on onlookers, along with a scooter navigating through the chaos.
Assad al-Najjar, a seasoned civil servant and candidate for mayor, strongly criticized the reckless behavior.
“This bridge isn’t a licensed venue, and to label it ‘safely conditioned’ is misleading and illegal,” he stated. “Such stunts put bystanders and first responders at risk. We must not allow this disorder in Los Angeles.”
This outrageous event sparked considerable backlash online, particularly since the recently rebuilt bridge, known as the “Ribbon of Light,” has been shrouded in darkness due to copper wire theft. An incident left it without lighting.
“I guess this is the only way to get the lights back on,” commented one user on Instagram.
Al-Najjar echoed the frustration regarding the ongoing theft of wiring, further aggravating Mayor Bass and City Council members.
“The continued copper theft has already left the 6th Street Bridge dark and it hasn’t been adequately repaired, primarily because of the inaction and budget cuts by Mayor Karen Bass and the City Council,” he remarked.
This iconic bridge has a rich history, having been featured in films like “Terminator 2,” “The Naked Gun,” and “Live and Die in LA.”
It faced demolition in 2016 due to structural concerns, but was reopened six years later with a dazzling LED design.
Yet, things haven’t gone quite to plan.
Almost immediately, the new bridge fell victim to copper thieves and graffiti vandalism, and it quickly turned into a hotspot for illegal fireworks displays, as reported in 2023.
