Riots broke out in Huntington Beach, California, on Sunday night following the end of this year’s Vans U.S. Open Of Surfing. Although it is unclear what sparked the event, reports are citing small fights as the instigation for the mayhem.
Police outfitted with tear gas and full riot gear responded to the scene.
According to the LA Times, eight people were arrested and several officers were injured. City signs, local storefronts, portable toilets and vehicles parked in the area were damaged.
There was mass social media coverage from the ground during the two-hour event. Here are some of the best posts from the middle of the mayhem.
Huntington Beach riot line. Pretty much risked my life for the picture pic.twitter.com/JuqJ97yvrT
— Connor McClane (@cmcclane9) July 29, 2013
Another pic from downtown HB tonight. pic.twitter.com/EWkDRGfEfj
— Scott (@LinckHB) July 29, 2013
Riot on Huntington beach pic.twitter.com/nEn5JxNwwA
— Sean Selky (@shahryarselky) July 29, 2013
The riot police just shut down Main Street in Huntington Beach during the last day of the US open. pic.twitter.com/YgsMc2g7pa
— Logan Zane Hunt (@loganzanehunt) July 29, 2013