TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa police are sending a warning about large groups of bicyclists taking over area streets.
Tampa police officers responded to Davis Islands over the weekend following a report of a large group of nuisance bicyclists. Three bicyclists were taken into custody after police said they intentionally damaged the property of residents and their officers.
“They will literally stop in the middle of the road, 100 of them, and not let any cars past and they’ll stop, and they’re doing wheelies, and just ride circles, and they block the traffic,” one neighbor, who did not wish to be identified, told News Channel 8. “It’s almost like they’re just trying to incite somebody to do something to them. It’s crazy.”
He had a frightening encounter with one of these groups.
“My car was parked on the side of the street parking, street parking and one of the guys popped a wheelie on my hood. and then jumped off the car,” the man said.
Tampa police stress these aren’t cyclists out enjoying a ride. Police say they’re often traveling in larger groups, riding around with no regard for people or traffic laws.
Police said anyone who happens to come across one of these groups should report it to their non-emergency line at 813-231-6130 and report the location, the general direction of travel, and any clothing or bike descriptions.
Police also urge people to reroute to avoid them and call 911 if the situation is dangerous.
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