About 500 teenagers caused chaos at a shopping centre in Aurora, Colorado, after a large gathering got out of control.
The incident happened at the Hoffman Heights Shopping Center on Sunday, August 30, 2026. Most of those in the crowd were reportedly between 14 and 17 years old.
Police said the gathering appeared to have been organised through social media around an unpermitted sporting event.
As the crowd grew, the teenagers moved towards nearby businesses, including a Burger King restaurant and a King Soopers supermarket.
More than 70 Aurora Police Department officers were sent to the area to deal with the crowd. Police eventually declared the gathering an unlawful assembly.
Videos shared on social media showed a large number of teenagers packed inside Burger King.
Some could be seen singing and dancing on tables. One of the tables eventually collapsed while teenagers were jumping on it.
Other members of the crowd entered the nearby supermarket, where police said some people damaged property and stole merchandise. Videos also showed teenagers running through the aisles.
The video was posted by Colorado 411 on X on August 31, 2026. Watch the video on X
Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain condemned the behaviour and warned those responsible that being part of a large crowd would not protect their identities.
“This crossed the line from a gathering of young people into a police matter because of the behavior and criminal conduct of some of those involved,” Chamberlain said. “We will not tolerate groups taking over roadways, disrupting businesses, damaging property or stealing under the belief that being part of a large crowd provides anonymity.”
Police said no arrests were immediately made at the scene.
Investigators are now reviewing videos and other evidence to identify people suspected of theft, vandalism and other criminal activities. The total value of the stolen items and property damage has not yet been announced.
Watch the Video below:
Large group of teenagers took over burger king store in Aurora Colorado. Yesterday a youtuber had a big event and many came out. But many teenagers started fighting and causing issues. Then they walked over to nearby businesses to cause more issues. When this happens nothing… pic.twitter.com/e11sOLJ0nR
— Colorado 411 (@Colorado411_420) August 31, 2026
