San Francisco authorities reported receiving tips about a large group of cyclists riding recklessly in the area. This was not an organized group ride. Video and images released by the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) showed the group violating numerous traffic laws, primarily on BMX bikes – a type designed for sports – and some electric mopeds.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), they rode against oncoming traffic, weaved through vehicles, and came dangerously close to pedestrians on the streets.
The police operation involved both aerial and ground units. Aerial video from a police helicopter showed the cyclists weaving through downtown traffic. Airborne officers relayed real-time information to ground units, enabling them to strategically set a trap on the Bay Bridge.
As the group rode against traffic on an off-ramp leading to the bridge, police were waiting at the top to intercept them. When the cyclists attempted to turn around, additional officers quickly converged at the base of the ramp, effectively trapping all of them.
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Some of the 85 bikes from the group. *Photo: CHP*
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Bikes being loaded onto a police pickup truck.
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Mostly BMX bikes.
Police detained 85 participants, issued citations, and then released them. All bikes were confiscated. While police did not specify the age of the participants, they appeared to be mostly teenagers.
A police representative emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that public roads are not a place for dangerous behavior or games. Riding against traffic on a freeway poses serious risks, not only to the cyclists but also to other motorists traveling at high speeds.
By My Anh (via ABC7)
