Pro-Trump rally goer arrested for assault as protesters clashed in Olympia
Dec 7, 2020, 6:02 AM
Hundreds gather to protest at the Capitol building on April 19, 2020, in Olympia, Washington. (Photo by Karen Ducey/Getty Images)
(Photo by Karen Ducey/Getty Images)
One man was arrested Saturday in Olympia, Wash., as protesters clashed near the capitol building and police say one person fired a gun into a crowd.
The 27-year-old man arrested on charges of first- and second-degree assault was part of a pro-Trump rally that began on the Capitol Campus and clashed with counter protesters.
Olympia Police say up to 200 people were involved in the fight, some armed with bats, bottles, rocks, chemical sprays, and guns. From reports and a video posted online, police were able to identify the armed 27-year-old man as the suspected shooter and arrested him.
It is currently unknown if anyone was struck by the bullet, but police are asking for the possible victim to come forward.
As was said earlier, we do have a person in custody for the shooting and detectives investigating. We have evidence but would very much like to speak to those present, especially the person who looks to have been injured.
— Olympia Police Dept (@OlyPD) December 6, 2020
Olympia Police had called for backup from the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office, but say most of the fight played out before they could safely intervene.
After the fight, some counter protesters marched through downtown Olympia, followed by a group of pro-Trump rally participants. While police say the group “exchanged insults,” there were no more violent physical interactions between them. The police did issue several dispersal orders.
Police are still investigating the day’s events and say there could be more charges and arrests. Anyone with information can contact the Olympia Police Department’s non-emergency line at 360-704-2740 or call 360-753-8300 during regular business hours.
The KIRO Radio Newsdesk contributed to this report.
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