Mexico

Police to Close Huntington Park Street During Mexico's World Cup Game

Police will have a "visible presence" when Mexico plays the Netherlands on Sunday morning

Police in Huntington Park are ramping up security in anticipation of Mexicos' World Cup match Sunday after several people were arrested during a rowdy victory celebration earlier this week.

Authorities will have a "visible presence" in Huntington Park on Sunday when Mexico plays the Netherlands at 9 a.m., the Huntington Park Police Department said in a news release. Police are also closing a three-block stretch of Pacific Boulevard, between Florence and Gage Avenues, to cars when the game begins.

Businesses will remain open and officials said they will monitor the street after the game to decide whether to reopen it.

Officials said there will be extra police on hand, and they'll be backed by Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies, as well as officers from the nearby cities of Bell and Bell Gardens if needed.

After Mexico beat Croatia on Monday, five people were arrested in Huntington Park. Police wore riot gear and rode on horseback as they ordered the crowds to disperse.

"Of course it's fine that you celebrate, but just organized, in peace," said Jasmine Tiznado, the owner of an arts and crafts store in Huntington Park.

The city of Huntington Park has a history of "large scale civil unrest" during World Cup games, Huntington Park Police Lt. Neal Mongan said earlier this month.

Huntington Park police said they "appreciate our community's enthusiasm for Mexico's performance in the World Cup," but advised fans to act responsibly.

The Los Angeles Police Department is also preparing for any disturbances. On Monday night, revelers filled the streets in the Pacoima area, where they set off fireworks and waved Mexican flags to celebrate Mexico's victory over Croatia earlier that day. Seven people were detained and released shortly.

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