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San Jose Police Declare Unlawful Assembly After Massive World Cup Watch Party Turns Unruly

The police response highlights growing public-safety risks with more large watch parties planned downtown.

Overview

  • Videos and police statements show officers declared an unlawful assembly late Tuesday and ordered crowds to disperse after celebrations spilled from San Pedro Square into nearby streets.
  • Police used crowd-control tactics including pepper spray and physical takedowns and made multiple arrests that were later booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail.
  • Officers reported two separate non-life-threatening stabbings, bottles thrown at officers, fireworks set off in crowded areas, and a crowd that surrounded and climbed onto an ambulance, hindering medical responders.
  • Organizers said roughly 30,000 people filled San Pedro Square to watch Mexico’s 2-0 win, and a weather delay contributed to the main viewing area reaching capacity well before kickoff.
  • City officials and police say heightened patrols and tighter crowd-control plans will continue for coming matches because downtown fan zones are expected to draw large crowds again.