On Halloween night, a group of youths unleashed chaos in Washington, D.C., clashing with the National Guard and causing widespread disruption. Hundreds of teenagers gathered in the Navy Yard area, sparking fights, blocking traffic, and ignoring orders to stay on sidewalks. The unrest escalated into a violent confrontation with law enforcement, including the National Guard, as the crowd grew increasingly aggressive.

Videos captured scenes of chaos, with teens fleeing from police and National Guardsmen through parks, while screams echoed amid the turmoil. At least one officer was injured after being thrown to the ground during the melee. By 11 p.m., authorities had dispersed the group, resulting in five arrests. Among those detained were Kaeden Brown, an 18-year-old accused of possessing a knife, and four minors aged 14 to 16, charged with offenses including public marijuana use and failing to obey directives.

D.C. Police confirmed the incident followed weeks of escalating disorder involving juveniles, prompting Mayor Muriel Bowser to impose a strict curfew. Effective immediately, all individuals under 18 are banned from public spaces between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. through November 5. The measure includes designated “special zones” where law enforcement can enforce earlier curfews, starting at 6 p.m., in high-risk areas like the Navy Yard and U Street Corridor. Violations could result in fines up to $300 or 10 days in jail.

Chief Pamela A. Smith condemned the behavior, calling it “unacceptable,” while authorities emphasized heightened enforcement to prevent further incidents. The crackdown follows a night of violence that left police injured and public safety threatened.