SFPD Conduct Stunt Driving Enforcement Operations 20-151

The San Francisco Police Department Stunt Driving Response Unit (SDRU) conducted Stunt Driving Enforcement Operations on the weekend of December 26th. The City has experienced an increase in displays of stunt driving on our public roadways. These events draw many people and vehicles creating a public health hazard during this time of sheltering in place due to COVID-19. These shows are dangerous and create traffic congestion and can result in the destruction of our roadways. In the recent past, these events have caused unsafe usage of vehicles that have led to bystanders and spectators to be struck, some injured very badly. On occasion, these shows turn violent with fights and gunshots fired from within the crowds. The SFPD enforces local and state laws to help create safe roadways for all those who use them. We are committed to eliminating deaths and injuries on our streets.

On Sunday, December 28, 2020, at approximately midnight a stunt driving event was reported at Galvez Avenue & Toland Street. SDRU units responded and encountered approximately 150-200 cars in the area. SDRU dispersed most cars from the location. During this incident, gunshots were fired from at least one vehicle at the scene. There were no reports of property damage or injuries from the gunshots.

On Sunday, December 28, 2020, at approximately 12:10 AM around 50 cars gathered at Mission Street and Sickles Avenue and attempted a Stunt Driving event. Ingleside units responded and the vehicles dispersed.

Shortly thereafter, about 75-100 vehicles and occupants were able to start a stunt driving event at 17th Street & Potrero Avenue. Fireworks were lit and laser pointers were directed at SFPD officers. SDRU responded to the scene and the vehicles dispersed.

On December 28, 2020, at approximately 12:54 AM officers effected a traffic stop on a vehicle with an equipment violation at 20th Street and Potrero Avenue, which was near a Stunt Driving event. The driver, a 24-year-old female from Pittsburg, California was cited for illegal window tint (27608(a) VC), driving without a driver’s license (12500(a) VC), and the vehicle was towed from the scene and impounded.

A short time later, at approximately 1:37 AM an officer observed a vehicle spinning donuts at 19th and Capp Streets. The officer effected a traffic stop on the vehicle and cited the driver, a 20-year-old male from Fairfield, California for exhibition of speed (23109(C) VC), expired vehicle registration (4000(a) VC), and no proof of vehicle insurance (16028(a) VC). The vehicle was towed from the scene and impounded.

Those who commit illegal stunt driving in San Francisco will be subject to the towing and impounding of their vehicle. Tow and impound fees are approximately $3,000 to remove the vehicle from impound. Additionally, violators will also face criminal and potential civil charges.

If you witness a display of stunt driving, we ask that you contact the police at 1-415-553-0123 or call 911 if witness an emergency.