The Oakland Police Department is investigating several sideshows that happened at multiple places around the city early Sunday morning.
The department said it started receiving reports of sideshow activity at around 2 a.m. at areas including Claremont and College avenues, Alcatraz and Telegraph avenues, the 1200 block of Derby Avenue as well as the 700 block of Mandela Parkway.
Video from one of the sideshows showed cars were on fire. While a video of another incident showed a car hitting a police car.
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Some of the sideshow activity reached Oakland councilmember Noel Gallo's district, where crews were cleaning up on Sunday.
“We have been complaining. The residents have been complaining to the chief and deputy chief that we need more assistance,” he said. “I mean, there were 200 to 300 young people watching the show. Cars spinning around, cars all over the place and but I have never seen so many police come together, every street was blocked off.”
According to Oakland police, fireworks and gunfire were also reported at several of the sideshows. The cars and spectators dispersed as officers arrived.
After sideshow activity last weekend, Oakland police delivered a warning on social media with the following message: "If you participate in illegal sideshows, your vehicle could be towed and seized with a 30-day hold."
Gallo said the reality is Oakland needs more police officers but he added that clamping down on sideshows is a safety issue and a priority.
“It’s a challenge here in Oakland. But we can do a lot better. But it’s going to take all of us united to get it done,” he said.
NBC Bay Area reached out to Oakland police about any citations or arrests on Sunday, but did not hear back.
The incidents are under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to reach out to 510-777-8570.
