Austin Police Warn of Planned Street Takeover That Never Happened

The Austin Police Department issued a warning Friday about a planned street takeover that was expected to unfold that evening, but the event never occurred.

Street takeovers, also known as “sideshows,” typically involve groups of drivers blocking off intersections to perform dangerous stunts such as drifting, donuts, and “ghost riding”—where a driver exits a moving vehicle to dance or perform near it before jumping back in. Such gatherings have drawn scrutiny in Austin, particularly after a series of chaotic incidents in 2023.

The event, promoted online under the title “ATX VS APD PT3,” did not have a confirmed location. In its warning, APD said it would not tolerate reckless driving or related criminal activity.

“Anyone participating in a street takeover will be subject to arrest, and their vehicle will be impounded,” the department stated in a press release. “We urge community members to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.”

Though often confused with illegal street racing, police note that takeovers differ in structure and intent. While racing involves high-speed contests between drivers, takeovers center on stunt driving in blocked-off areas, often drawing large crowds and creating public safety risks.

In 2023, Gov. Greg Abbott signed two measures—House Bill 1442 and House Bill 2899—aimed at curbing both street racing and takeover activity. The legislation increased penalties, expanded enforcement authority, and allowed law enforcement agencies to seize vehicles involved in these events.

Despite heightened penalties and enforcement efforts, law enforcement agencies across Texas have continued to monitor online chatter promoting takeovers. The latest warning suggests that organizers may still be attempting to stage large-scale gatherings, although APD stated it had no confirmed details about Friday’s planned event.

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