Full Breakdown
AutoZone Stores Ransacked Amid Weekend Street Takeovers in East and South Los Angeles
8/10/2026, 2:28:30 PM
Core Event
Dozens of people broke into and looted three AutoZone locations in East Los Angeles and South Los Angeles during large-scale street takeovers over a single weekend. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) reported two break-ins at the East LA store on Olympic Boulevard and Atlantic Avenue—once on Saturday morning and again on Sunday around 3 a.m.—and a third incident at a South LA store on Imperial Highway and Central Avenue early Sunday. Video from witnesses shows windows smashed, merchandise strewn across aisles, and storefronts boarded up after the first attack.
Background & Context
The incidents occurred as part of “street takeovers,” informal gatherings where hundreds of vehicles converge, often accompanied by fireworks and, in the South LA case, a vehicle set ablaze. LAPD Media Relations Officer Rosario Cervantes confirmed a separate takeover in the Gramercy Park area of South LA that featured a large crowd, fireworks and a burning car. No injuries were reported in any of the events.
Data & Statistics
- Approximately 100 people participated in the Sunday takeover at the East LA AutoZone.
- More than 100 vehicles were involved in the same gathering, according to a LASD watch commander.
- The South LA store’s break-in occurred around 4 a.m. Sunday.
- The East LA AutoZone manager indicated the store will remain closed for two to three days for wiring and electrical repairs, and employees will not be paid during the shutdown.
Official Statements & Responses
The LASD said no arrests have been made in connection with the weekend burglaries or street takeovers. LAPD Officer Rosario Cervantes described the South LA incident as a “large takeover” with fireworks and a vehicle fire, noting that officers found the scene but made no arrests. The AutoZone manager confirmed the East LA location will be closed for repairs and that staff will receive no wages while the store is non-operational.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's just absolutely wicked and crazy that somebody would want to come and mess with hardworking people,” — Juan Batts, south LA resident
