Dozens Arrested, Firearms Recovered During Street Racing Crackdown in Atlanta
ATLANTA, Ga. — A large street racing gathering in northwest Atlanta early Sunday morning led to multiple arrests and the recovery of several firearms, according to police.
Officers with the Atlanta Police Department, along with the Georgia State Patrol, responded around 1:30 a.m. on April 12, 2026, to the intersection of James Jackson Parkway and Bolton Road following reports of street racing activity.
Authorities said participants had taken over the intersection, blocking traffic while performing illegal drifting maneuvers and drag racing. When officers arrived, they observed a crowd of more than 200 people.
Police activated emergency equipment to disperse the crowd, prompting individuals to flee in multiple directions on foot and in vehicles.
Officers pursued several individuals, detaining at least one person after a foot chase. Additional units conducted traffic stops on vehicles attempting to leave the area.
During the operation, officers stopped two vehicles and detained the occupants. Multiple firearms were recovered, and several vehicles were impounded.
In total, multiple individuals were arrested on various traffic-related charges, while one juvenile was issued citations.
Those arrested include:
- Anthony Hernandez, 17
- Malaysia West, 25
- Anthony Navichoque, 17
- Alfonso Gutierrez, 18
- Alexis Mendoza, 21
- Daniel Cortez-Vazquez, 19
- Chesly Medina, 19
- Kevin Cabrera-Abarca, 18
- Daniel Vazquez, 19
- Sebastian Herver-Avina, 24
- Eric Cuevas, 23
- Slade Warren, 19
- Perfecto Benitez, 21
- Emily Ochoa-Benitez, 17
- Rahiem Jackson, 22
- Jarett Steele, 18
- Desirae Brooks, 20
Police said the Atlanta Police Department will continue enforcement efforts and warned that illegal street racing will not be tolerated.
Officials also thanked the Georgia State Patrol for their assistance.
The investigation remains ongoing.
