A 17-year-old boy tragically died early Saturday, May 20, after falling from the 6th Street Viaduct in Los Angeles, reportedly during a dangerous social media stunt.
The teen’s body was found on the east side of the Viaduct, an area increasingly linked to reckless behavior and online thrill-seeking. There have been three fatalities on or near the bridge in the past 10 months.
Authorities have withheld the victim’s identity. At a Los Angeles Police Commission meeting on Tuesday, May 23, Police Chief Michel Moore provided insights into the incident. The teen lost his footing and fell while climbing one of the Viaduct’s arches, presumably to share the act on social media.
Opened in July 2022, the $588 million 6th Street Viaduct quickly became a celebrated city landmark. It replaced an 84-year-old Art Deco bridge, extending 3,500 feet over the Los Angeles River and providing a key link between downtown and the historic Eastside. With thousands of LED lights highlighting the structure, it offers stunning views of the city skyline, marking the largest and most expensive project of its kind in the city.
Despite its allure, the bridge has seen its share of issues recently. Authorities have repeatedly closed access points due to concerns around street racing, graffiti, and unlawful gatherings.
