PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland police arrested two men in a street takeover on election night in North Portland.
Around 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, officers responded to a call of a group of people taking over the North Lombard Street and North Chautauqua Boulevard intersection. Some drivers were drifting their cars in the intersection while others watched, Portland police said.
Gunshots were reported, but Portland police said the noises were "likely fireworks" and there was no evidence of gunfire.
Officers stopped the street takeover and deployed spike strips to deflate the tires of two vehicles attempting to elude police. Overall, two drivers were stopped and one arrested, a 19-year-old whose been charged with unlawful street takeover and reckless driving.
Portland police also stopped one 18-year-old driver speeding at nearly 100 mph on North Marine Drive. He's been charged with reckless driving, attempt to elude by vehicle and resisting arrest. Both vehicles were towed.
Portland city code outlaws street racing, which includes demonstrating, exhibiting or comparing a cars maneuverability or power, by driving in circles and around corners. Portland police recently updated its policy to be able to tow any vehicles involved with street takeovers.
