Crowds Fill California Beaches Despite Shelter in Place Order Thousands flocked to beaches, hiking trails and public parks in California, defying a state order to shelter in place and avoid close contact with others. California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued the order <br />on March 20, in order to help prevent <br />the spread of the new coronavirus. To combat the open defiance of <br />the order, public officials are responding by closing parks, beaches and other public spaces. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti Similar incidents have occurred in <br />metropolitan areas around the country, <br />as local and state officials try to contain <br />the ongoing spread of COVID-19.
