Driver Arrested After Downtown Bradenton Burnout Incident

A 28-year-old man was arrested early Sunday morning after police said he performed a burnout at a busy downtown intersection while under the influence.

Bradenton police officers were patrolling 12th Street around 2 a.m. when they heard a silver pickup truck rev its engine and speed southbound. The driver, identified as Juan Leon, swerved past officers and pedestrians before reaching the intersection at Manatee Avenue, where he stopped at a red light.

Instead of waiting, Leon spun his tires in a burnout, damaging the crosswalk. Police reported that he later admitted he was trying to show off.

Leon was taken into custody and faces charges of driving under the influence, reckless driving, and aggravated assault after nearly striking several people. He was also charged with criminal mischief for the damage to city property.

No injuries were reported, and police said the incident highlighted the dangers of reckless driving in downtown Bradenton’s nightlife district.