A large group of adults gathered in the streets of downtown Los Angeles Thursday night, taking over the sidewalk in front of the Orpheum Theatre and inhaling nitrous oxide (NOS) from balloons. The gathering occurred concurrently with the first of three consecutive shows by the band Widespread Panic at the venue.
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Video captured at the scene showed individuals with NOS tanks and balloons. Some attendees appeared rowdy, according to reports. One local artist, SiG.Bodie, was heard in a video saying, “Los Angeles, the place to be, if you not outside, come and touch grass … We just outside having a good time.”
Nitrous oxide is a legal substance in California when used for legitimate medical purposes, such as dental pain relief. However, its recreational use with the intent to get high is a misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to six months in jail.
Recent incidents highlight the dangers associated with impaired driving due to NOS inhalation. In late June, an off-duty deputy observed a driver repeatedly inhaling NOS while driving erratically in Rancho Palos Verdes, narrowly avoiding collisions. The driver was later apprehended with NOS tanks and balloons. In March, a driver accused of similar behavior led a high-speed police chase across Los Angeles.
When inhaled, nitrous oxide can induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria, but excessive use can lead to hallucinations and potentially death. The event in downtown Los Angeles occurred late Thursday night into early Friday morning.