Mass Arrests Following I-676 Shutdown by Crowd in Philadelphia

TL/DR –

Over 50 people were arrested during a large demonstration by the Party of Socialism and Liberation that temporarily shut down parts of Interstate 676 westbound in Center City, Philadelphia. About 350 protestors blocked the highway for around two hours, leading to a disruption in traffic; however, approximately 320 left the site peacefully. The remaining protestors were arrested by state police.

Large Demonstration Leads to Over 50 Arrests in Philadelphia

Over 50 arrests resulted from a massive demonstration that temporarily blocked parts of Interstate 676 westbound in Philadelphia’s Center City on a recent Saturday. The highway was closed for approximately two hours from the New Jersey state line to the Broad Street exit.

Police reports indicate that around 4 p.m., approximately 350 members of the Party of Socialism and Liberation flooded onto the highway and disrupted traffic flow. Scenes from the protest showed a multitude of individuals obstructing the roadway with signs expressing condemnation of violence overseas.

Most of the protestors, about 320 in number, peacefully left I-676 to march through Center City. However, the remaining demonstrators who were blocking the highway had to be removed by state police. The total arrests made by troopers during the incident totaled 58, concluding the demonstration by 8 p.m.

Those arrested are being processed at the state barracks in Belmont, according to state police. Philadelphia police added that they made at least two arrests and issued citations.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the event are requested to reach out to state and Philadelphia police. For real-time updates on Philadelphia traffic, visit the 6abc Traffic Map.

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