Dozens Storm Shopping Plaza in San Jose’s Willow Glen Neighborhood
Authorities are seeking information about a large group of individuals who caused chaos in a parking lot in San Jose’s Willow Glen neighborhood over the weekend.
Witnesses reported that more than 100 people on bicycles, primarily young teens to individuals in their early 20s, invaded a parking lot near Bird and Minnesota Avenue on Saturday afternoon. Eyewitnesses claimed the group was setting off firecrackers and smoke bombs, creating a dangerous atmosphere.
San Jose resident John Lamantia recounted his experience trying to enter the lot, expressing concern for his safety and that of others. “I was just fearful that they would do something to me or somebody else or my car,” he said. He observed the group performing donuts on their bikes and blocking his path. While some were simply hanging out, others appeared to escalate into violence.
Lamantia described an alarming scene where a woman emerging from Safeway ran to her car, terrified, as bottles were thrown in her direction. “People were coming out of Safeway, and one lady just ran to her car with her basket because they were throwing bottles at her,” he recounted.
NBC Bay Area spoke to several other witnesses who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns. They reported that the mob also invaded the Safeway and a nearby liquor store, stealing items in the process. One witness, a pregnant woman, shared her distressing encounter, stating that rocks and other objects were thrown at her as she attempted to leave. One rock struck her in the face, while another cracked her windshield and dented her vehicle.
San Jose police responded with multiple officers, managing to disperse the group. Authorities confirmed that the crowd was taunting bystanders and throwing objects, resulting in injuries to several individuals. Police are now working to identify those responsible for the disruption.
“This behavior is detrimental to our community. It drives people away from businesses and creates a sense of anxiety among residents,” Lamantia expressed.
