4 arrested after weekend protest in Seattle; police say more could follow

Seattle police confirmed they made four arrests Saturday night as crowds gathered in front of the Federal Building. More may be coming, according to a detective assigned to the public affairs office, as the department continues to investigate other potential crimes like the assault of an independent journalist.

One 23-year-old was arrested for obstructing a public officer. A 19-year-old and a 25-year-old were arrested for assault 3, which is a felony. Another 25-year-old was arrested for intimidating a public official, also a felony. Police say all four were booked into jail.

None of the four are believed to be Seattle residents.

No arrests made during Seattle’s ‘No Kings’ march

This was the same day as the “No Kings” national day of protests. About 70,000 people were estimated to have participated in Seattle alone, marching from Cal Anderson Park in Capitol Hill to Seattle Center.

That march was peaceful. No arrests were made.

It was near sunset that people started flocking to Second Avenue. Some wore all black, and many had their faces covered.

Video from the scene shows some people blocking traffic and setting fires in front of the Federal Building, which houses the immigration court and has been the site of several recent protests.

Independent journalist attacked after weekend protest in Seattle

Cam Higby, a conservative online media personality, was there reporting on the simmering violence. He was wearing a helmet and was accompanied by someone with a camera.

Video shows at least one person attack him as a ring of people surrounded him. Some shouted to let him go. But he was hit repeatedly in the head. Even with the helmet, he told “The Jason Rantz Show” on KTTH that he suffered a mild concussion. Photos show dents and scratches in his helmet.

Detectives with the Seattle Police public affairs office confirmed the Assault and Homicide Unit would be investigating Higby’s case, and that a detective had been assigned. No arrests have been made.

“I have had to front my medical bills,” Higby said in a statement. “I have been unable to do my job as a result of the concussion and the danger I face in the field. I am not seeking vengeance, I am seeking justice. For myself, and the people of Seattle, Seattle press, and officers who are affected by ongoing violence.”

Several people online believe they have identified the person who attacked Higby, but KIRO Newsradio does not name suspects until they are charged with a crime.

However, a police spokesperson said if there are leads on a suspect, they will follow up.

Police ultimately advanced on the crowd around 11:30 p.m., breaking it up and making the four arrests.

Read more of Jillian Raftery’s stories here.