Oakland, California is grappling with a surge in dangerous "sideshows" that are jeopardizing public safety and prompting city officials to explore new countermeasures. These gatherings involve drivers and onlookers blocking intersections, streets, parking areas, and even bridges to perform reckless driving stunts, including extreme donuts and crashes.

Councilman Noel Gallo of Oakland's District 5 expressed his concern, stating that the sideshows are causing damage to city infrastructure and creating safety hazards for both residents and spectators. He highlighted that a significant portion of participants, approximately 64%, are not Oakland residents but come from surrounding areas.

Sideshows are becoming a growing problem for the city of Oakland as city officials demand harsher penalties for participants and spectators. (AIO Filmz/Fox News)

Vehicles are pictured doing donuts at an intersection with hundreds of spectators. (AIO Filmz/Fox News)

A man is pictured with his head outside of a vehicle during a 'sideshow' event. (AIO Filmz/Fox News)

Residents have reported that some drivers wear masks to conceal their identities and brandish firearms to deter anyone from recording their license plates. The events attract substantial crowds, and the escalating frequency and severity of the sideshows have spurred community demands for action.

In one instance, nearly 100 motorcyclists engaged in a sideshow on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, halting traffic. Councilman Gallo emphasized ongoing efforts to curb this illegal behavior, including increased police presence and collaboration with the California Highway Patrol and sheriff's department. He warned participants that they face vehicle impoundment and potential jail time if caught.

Gallo stressed the need for an ordinance that clearly defines fines and penalties for organizers and participants of sideshows to protect families and children and maintain public safety.