LOS ANGELES – The bustling corner of Sherman Way and Sepulveda Boulevard in Van Nuys, usually graced by an 83-year-old flower vendor known as the “flower grandma,” saw an unusual scene on Mother’s Day weekend when LAPD officers approached her regarding a complaint about her lacking a permit.
The incident drew immediate attention, especially from other local vendors. Nelson Gonzalez, owner of the popular Pupusa Express truck, voiced his dismay. “I know [the] police have to do what they have to do,” he said, “but, really?” Gonzalez documented the event live on social media, capturing footage of officers instructing him to step back. The situation escalated when the officers confiscated his phone and handcuffed him.
As Gonzalez’s live stream gained traction, community members began to gather at the scene. Among them was Nelson Martin Sandoval, who also streamed live on TikTok, expressing his intent to support the flower vendor by purchasing her flowers. The community’s response was swift and overwhelming; soon, dozens of people arrived, buying every flower she had and offering to cover any potential citation costs.
The LAPD’s Van Nuys Division explained that the officers were responding to a legitimate call and asserted their right to detain individuals if they believed it was necessary for their investigation. However, neither Gonzalez nor the flower vendor was arrested.
The episode highlighted the community’s solidarity and support for the elderly vendor, transforming a potentially distressing situation into a show of collective goodwill.
