Cops Work to Control Lakers Fans

Los Angeles (myFOXla.com) - Thousands of Los Angeles Lakers fans streamed into the streets outside Staples Center and in East Los Angeles Sunday night to celebrate the team's 15th NBA championship, and at least four were arrested when the celebration turned ugly.

Jane Yamamoto has the video report.

No major injuries were immediately reported.

The Lakers beat the Orlando Magic 99-86 in Orlando, Fla., taking the series four games to one. It's the team's 15th championship and coach Phil Jackson's 10th, which is more than any other NBA coach.

Following ABC's telecast of the game, a public service announcement ran, with Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Derek Fisher and Jackson asking fans to "celebrate with dignity."

"This is your moment to shine," Jackson said.

Police were out in force as fans celebrated in the streets and some set off fireworks.

Outside Staples Center, a mosh pit developed, with fans bumping each other, and some started a small bonfire in the street, prompting police to move in and put it out.

Following the fire, police formed a skirmish line to contain the crowd as the light began to fade.

Nearby streets were closed to traffic so fans could celebrate on Chick Hearn Court.

The main crowd began breaking up around 9 p.m.

A gas station minimart was also looted.

On Figueroa Street, underneath the Santa Monica Freeway overpass, rioters attacked an abandoned Metro bus and covered it with graffiti, said Los Angeles police Officer Karen Rayner.

The attackers then looted the bus, according to a camera crew at the scene.

In East Los Angeles, Whittier and Atlantic boulevards were blocked to traffic, while police were on every corner to monitor the festivities.

Disturbances have followed Lakers championship victories in the past, and fans took to the streets and began shaking vehicles in East Los Angeles Thursday night after the Lakers beat the Magic in overtime to gave the team a 3- 1 lead in the series.

Fans gathered at Whittier and Atlantic boulevards and rocked vehicles stopped at a traffic light, but no injuries were reported. Two people were arrested.

Disturbances followed Lakers championship victories in 2000, 2001 and 2002.