TAKOMA PARK, Md. — Police are investigating after a chaotic scene at an intersection in Takoma Park over the weekend. Takoma Park Police investigators say a dangerous car meet-up took a violent turn.
Officers were first called to the intersection of New Hampshire Avenue and Ethan Allen Avenue, near the Takoma Park U-Haul, for reports of reckless driving. Officers were met by a large crowd forming a circle around the intersection. Inside the circle cars were doing dangerous burnouts and donuts. A bystander posted video of the scene on YouTube.
According to police, as officers moved in to try to break things up, the crowd's focus shifted toward them. People in the crowd surrounded the vehicles and began banging on the hoods and bumpers of the cruisers. People also taunted the officers, police said. Takoma Park Police Deputy Chief Shibu Philipose described them as "hostile spectators."
The responding officers used their lights and sirens to try to disperse the crowd to no avail. Police say some in the crowd were wearing bullet proof vests and said one person had a gun in their waistband.
"As you can imagine, this was an overwhelming situation, but our brave officers acted with professionalism and showed great restraint," Philipose said.
Takoma Park Police called for backup from Montgomery County Police and Prince George's County Police. As more officers arrived from neighboring jurisdictions, the crowd began to break up.
Many of the reckless drivers were seen heading toward D.C. Officers provided lookouts to DC Police.
"These reckless meet-ups violate several of Maryland’s transportation laws and are illegal," Takoma Park Police said in a news release. "They are dangerous and jeopardize the safety and tranquility of our community. We are working with our allied partners in law enforcement to address this serious issue through education, enforcement, and changes to legislation."
Philipose said his department is in support of House Bill 601 addressing street racing and exhibition driving, as well as House Bill 212, which addresses noise created by these vehicles and events.
Neighbors in the area said the noise Saturday night was frightening.
"How could you not hear it? You'd have to be deaf or dead, or both," One neighbor said. He saw the video circulating on social media.
"I'm thinking, those people are awfully close to those cars."
So far, no arrests have been made related to the meet-up. Police say the investigation is active and ongoing.
Anyone who may have information that could help investigators should contact Takoma Park Police at (301) 270-1100.
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