LAPD Nabs 86, Tows 72 Cars for Illegal LA River Photo Shoot as Drivers Blame Tiny Signs

Los Angeles police cracked down on an unauthorized car photo shoot in the LA River on June 9, arresting 86 people—including two for felonies—and towing 72 vehicles after over 100 cars flooded the riverbed in Cypress Park. The Los Angeles Police Department’s street racing task force responded around 6:30 p.m., declaring the gathering illegal due to lack of permits and trespassing on public property.

Drivers claimed they were unaware of the rules, citing a “really small” trespassing sign they couldn’t read. Alexander Pimienta, whose motorcycle was among the impounded vehicles, insisted the event was a legitimate photo shoot for the local car community, not a street takeover.

However, multiple attendees admitted that some drivers performed burnouts before police arrived, escalating the situation. Angel Rodriguez, whose Ford Mustang was towed, argued that barriers—not smaller signs—should block access to prevent future incidents.

Pimienta criticized the enforcement as excessive, estimating impound fees at around $3,000 per vehicle, on top of trespassing citations. The LA River, a cinematic backdrop for films like *Grease*, *Drive*, *The Dark Knight Rises*, and *Gone in 60 Seconds*, has long attracted car enthusiasts, but authorities emphasized that unauthorized use carries serious consequences.