Another illegal party set for SoCal coastal haven as city battles post-July 4 chaos

By New York Post (U.S.) | Created at 2026-07-25 20:55:48 | Updated at 2026-07-25 22:12:20 1 hour ago

A Southern California police department already battered by a chaotic Fourth of July gathering issued a stern warning Saturday that it’s investigating another unauthorized get-together that could happen this weekend.

Newport Beach police issued a blunt warning Saturday, saying officers are investigating another possible unlawful event being promoted for this weekend.

“We’ve seen the post,” the department said on social media.

Police officers, firefighters, and first responders keeping the community safe from dangerous and unlawful behavior.

“The event is under active investigation, and we are working with our regional partners to identify those involved in organizing or promoting any unlawful activity,” police said.

Authorities said extra officers will be deployed throughout the city as they prepare for a possible repeat of the holiday chaos.

Police urged visitors to respect the community — or face the consequences.

“Anyone who organizes, promotes or participates in criminal activity should expect immediate enforcement action,” Newport Beach Police stated, whether it be vandalism or unlawful assembly.

“Our priority is to protect the community, maintain public safety and respond quickly to any criminal activity.”

The department also warned that young troublemakers won’t get a free pass, noting that minors can still face “serious” consequences and liability for their actions.

The investigation comes after videos from the July 4 gathering in Newport Beach — one of Southern California’s most affluent coastal communities — spread online, showing scenes that triggered outrage and concern among residents.

People running on a beach as police on horses and in cars try to control a crowd.

More than 400 people were arrested as the gathering descended into utter chaos, with authorities later pointing to an alleged social media-fueled “TikTok Takeover” as a catalyst. There were reports of large crowds fighting and setting off illegal fireworks.

Youths and minors made up the majority of those taken into custody, and police revealed that the overwhelming majority of attendees arrested came from outside Newport Beach, such as Arizona or other parts of California.

Officials said the situation quickly turned dangerous, with people blocking roadways, restricting emergency vehicle access and throwing mortars, fireworks and other projectiles at officers. At least one officer was reportedly injured.

Clips appear to show people carrying broken street signs and looting a nearby Pavilions grocery store on West Balboa Boulevard, with cops on horseback also charging at revelers on the beach.

Mayor Lauren Kleiman previously said the city has long experienced an influx of young visitors over the Fourth of July weekend, but believes social media has intensified the problem.

“The last couple of years we’ve definitely seen an uptick, in particular kids from out of state. [It’s] not atypical, but I think that social media has really changed things,” he said.