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Police work to control rowdy Eagles Super Bowl LIX victory celebrations as fires, fireworks light up Philly

Philadelphia police used mounted officers and emergency alerts to control the crowds after Eagles fans ignited fires and tore down traffic poles

PHILADELPHIA — Eagles fans poured into Philly streets to celebrate the team’s Super Bowl LIX win over the Kansas City Chiefs, with some fans lighting fires and tearing down traffic poles, CBS 21 Philadelphia reported.

Despite city officials urging fans to celebrate responsibly, large crowds gathered, leading to incidents of property damage and disorder, according to the report. Video from CBS Philadelphia captured fans setting towels and sheets from a box truck on fire at 12th and Market streets, prompting police to push back crowds and extinguish the flames.

Nearby, at 13th and Market, fans were seen pulling down traffic poles, according to the report. Fireworks were also set off in the streets, though no injuries were reported as of Feb. 10.

Philadelphia police worked to disperse crowds into the early hours, using mounted officers and motorcycles to block traffic. Around 1:30 a.m., residents received an emergency alert instructing people to leave Center City streets and follow police instructions, according to the report. Authorities have not yet released information on arrests or the extent of damage.

Philadelphia police made approximately 50 arrests in connection with the incidents, according to ABC News. Among them, five individuals were charged with assaulting police officers, while two were arrested for aggravated assault. Police also reported arrests for reckless endangerment and third-degree misdemeanor disorderly conduct.

In addition, 29 people were taken into custody for disorderly conduct and issued code violation notices.

Authorities said eight arrests were linked to vandalism targeting four city sanitation trucks, two banks and two retail stores, all located on Walnut Street in Center City.

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Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com