Suspect Arrested for Detonating Fireworks and Injuring Multiple Officers 22-080
On Monday June 20, 2022 at approximately 3:19 p.m., on duty, uniformed San Francisco Police officers were in the area of 5th and Market Street at the conclusion of the Golden State Warriors Championship Parade celebration when an explosive device was detonated. Two officers were in very close proximity to the explosion and immediately experienced ringing in their ears, hearing loss and became disoriented. One officer also sustained burns from debris of the exploding device.
The two officers were assisted by nearby officers to medical attention and a description of the suspect responsible for the explosions was broadcasted. Officers in the area located a subject matching the description and attempted to detain him to further investigate the incident.
Upon contact, the male became combative and made threats of physical harm to multiple officers. After a physical struggle ensued, officers subdued the suspect and placed him under arrest.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old male, Sione Havili of Hayward, was in possession of more explosive devices as well as a lighter which were seized during the arrest.
“This is the second incident within a week where explosives were used to harm and injure our officers. Our officers work extremely hard to ensure that events like this can be held safely so that fans can celebrate with their team and each other,” Chief Scott said. “but reckless and destructive acts such as this one that put the safety of the public and officers at risk will not be tolerated and suspects will be held accountable for their actions.”
Havili was charged with 7 counts of resisting an executive officer (69(a)PC), possession of explosives with intent to injure or intimidate (18740 PC), possession of an explosive (12305 H&S), possession of an explosive in a public place (18715 PC) and possession of a destructive device (18710 PC).
The San Francisco Police Department is committed to facilitating the public’s right to peaceful expression of their First Amendment rights. The Department does not tolerate violence against police officers or any member of the community. We ask that everyone exercising their First Amendment rights be considerate, respectful, and mindful of the safety of others.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the SFPD 24-hour tip line at 1-415-575-4444. Language access services are available through this phone number. You may also Text a Tip to TIP411 and begin the text message with SFPD. Callers may remain anonymous.
SFPD Incident 220404385
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