Police in Austin, Texas, said one officer was injured in connection to a number of “street racing incidents” across the state capital Saturday night.
The Austin Police Department announced on Sunday that the riotous behavior resulted in several police cars being damaged in addition to the injury.
“APD is committed to stopping this conduct,” the department said in a tweet. “Lawbreaking in this manner will result in enforcement and arrest. Our community’s safety is the #1 priority for APD.”
🚨UPDATE: Last night's street racing in Austin injured one APD officer and damaged several police cars.
APD is committed to stopping this conduct. Lawbreaking in this manner will result in enforcement and arrest. Our community's safety is the #1 priority for APD.🚨 https://t.co/Gp7oiCz30S— Austin Police Department (@Austin_Police) February 19, 2023
Police did not immediately release any details on the identity of the officer or the severity of his or her injuries.
Video footage posted to social media shows cars wildly spinning in circles and large crowds confronting law enforcement and even launching what appears to be fireworks at police vehicles.
BREAKING: Austin police confirm one officer was hurt and multiple cars damaged by a large crowd involved in several racing incidents late Saturday.
Travis County also had 2 patrol cars damaged.
Social media posts show this was a large, coordinated event.
pic.twitter.com/2JULoAUwWr— Tony Plohetski (@tplohetski) February 19, 2023
Austin police said in an overnight tweet that they were investigating a number of “street racing incidents” across Austin.
“The department wants to reiterate this behavior is reckless & poses significant risks and dangers to the public,” Austin police said. “APD remains committed to enforcing the law and keeping our community safe.”