12 People Were Arrested Friday Night in Reno-Sparks for Illegal Sideshow Activities

NEVADA -On Friday night, the Reno Police Department (RPD) detained 12 people concerning illegal sideshow operations across the Reno-Sparks area.

Several riots, sideshows, and takeovers of streets were reported in Reno and Sparks at 10:30 p.m. on September 30.

According to the Reno Police Department, hundreds of automobiles and probably thousands of people gathered in the Walmart parking lot at 250 Vista Knoll Parkway in Reno, where the disturbance began.

After officers tried to disperse the throng on Mt. Anderson St. and Echo Ave. in Stead, the attendees moved to a new location. There were hundreds of people milling about the intersection, and some automobiles began engaging in dangerous maneuvers there. The assembly was once again dispersed by police, but the participants quickly found a new meeting place.

In Sparks’ Packer Way and Reno’s Trademark Drive, the crowd kept up their unlawful sideshow antics. RPD said that when the group headed to the intersection of Virginia and 5th streets in downtown Reno, several significant fights broke out, and several responding police were assaulted.

Drivers regrouped at the Target parking lot on Sierra Center Parkway and 6845 to continue their dangerous behavior.

Multiple people were arrested, cited, and charged with various traffic violations and other charges, including reckless driving, hit-and-run causing injury, weapons violation (for the recovery of a stolen pistol from a participant), and more.

Felony arrests – 2
Misdemeanor arrests – 10
Citations – 33
Cars towed – 14

Reno police will maintain its “zero tolerance” policy toward those who participate in illegal gatherings and demonstrations. Constant attention will be paid to ensuring the well-being of our police force and the general populace.

Starting the evening of October 1, RPD will have more officers on duty in case of rallies or riots, with the primary goal of maintaining peace and order and protecting the people.

Credits: Fox Reno / KTNV