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This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.

This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.

News

Black College Expo explosion?

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An LAist tipster shot this photo outside the Staples Center this afternoon. Sure, it looks like an LAPD convention, but in fact today was the Black College Expo. The event was supposed to feature seminars on financial aid, college prep and the like, with a step show competition and scholarship awards.

But the rumor is that today's event also featured some kind of gang fight. Perhaps even a very large gang fight. So far the local news isn't covering it, but we know that the police don't close city blocks and line them with police cars (our tipster counted 70) for nothing.

If you're headed toward downtown, traffic will likely be jammed up. As of this 5:45pm writing, helicopters are still circling. And if you know more of the story, LAist would love to hear what happened.

You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.

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