July Fourth teen takeover draws 8,000 youths to Raleigh, sparking shootings

On July 4, a “teen takeover” flooded Raleigh streets with about 8,000 youths at Glenwood South and 3,000 at Brier Creek, many from outside Raleigh, leading to six shootings and 10 injuries. Police arrested 29 young adults (18 and older), seized 11 firearms, and filed four juvenile petitions (one elevated to secure custody). A Moore Square gathering earlier that day was peaceful, but chaotic late-night scenes erupted as crowds clashed and law enforcement encountered more guns than anticipated; investigations continue.