Phoenix, United States - February 03, 2025 02/03/2025 10:00 pm (GMT-0700) PHOENIX, Ariz. – Hundreds of protesters occupied the intersection of 43rd Avenue and McDowell Road in Maryvale / Phoenix around 10 p.m. Protesters began gathering early in the evening and initially remained on the sidewalks. As night fell and crowds grew, demonstrators took to the street and began blocking traffic. Several protesters in vehicles performed illegal stunts in the intersection. Vehicles were seen doing donuts, burnouts, and other dangerous activities. Multiple protesters were seen climbing on a semi-truck stuck in the chaos. A short time later, Phoenix Police officers in riot gear began advancing eastbound on McDowell Road toward the crowd. Officers declared the assembly unlawful and issued commands to disperse. Protesters ignored police commands and began marching toward the riot line. Officers deployed aerial flash bangs in an attempt to disperse the crowd. The crowd continued to advance toward officers despite several attempts to deter further escalations. Multiple protesters were seen hurling objects toward officers, prompting police to deploy dozens of pepper balls into the crowd. Officers slowly advanced eastbound, firing several volleys of pepper balls, eventually securing the intersection. With officers now in control of the intersection, the remaining demonstrators fled the area. It is unknown if any arrests have been made and if any injuries have been reported.