LA man stabbed during dueling COVID vaccine mandate protests

A man was stabbed at a rally against mandatory vaccinations in Los Angeles Saturday after violent clashes broke out between demonstrators and counter-protestors, cops and local reports said.

Hundreds of people gathered on the south lawn of LA’s City Hall around 2 p.m. for a “choose freedom march” that organizers said was a protest against “medical tyranny, mandatory vaccinations and vaccine passports,” KNBC reported.

The protesters carried American flags, pro-Trump memorabilia and signs calling for “medical freedom,” The Los Angeles Times reported.

About half an hour later, a fight broke out with counter-protest group “No Safe Space for Fascists” that organizers said responded to “violent anti-vaxxers.”

A Los Angeles Police officer puts pressure on the open wound of a demonstrator, who was stabbed during an anti-vaccination protest.
A Los Angeles Police officer puts pressure on the open wound of a demonstrator, who was stabbed during an anti-vaccination protest.
AP

The LAPD said that one man was hospitalized with a stab wound. No arrests were made, but police said the investigation is ongoing.

A reporter on scene for KPCC radio was also attacked by anti-mask protesters. He was seen walking out of the park near City Hall being screamed at and kicked, the LA Times reported.

Videos on social media showed the protesters and counter-protesters exchanging blows and pepper spray.

“Unmask them! Unmask them all!” One man can be heard yelling in the fighting, while another man passes by covered in blood from the skirmish.

LAPD assists a man who was stabbed in a clash between anti-vaccination protesters and counter-protesters.
LAPD assists a man who was stabbed in a clash between anti-vaccination protesters and counter-protesters.
AP

The crowd cheers “USA” as the police move in.

More videos showed taunting and skirmishes between the groups.

Video from Los Angeles videographer Sean Carmichael appears to show one person being treated by responders.

The Los Angeles Police Department said it is “continuing to monitor the situation.”

The protest appeared to be in response to LA Public Schools Superintendent Megan Reilly’s Friday announcement that all district employees would be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 15. 

Previously, weekly testing had been mandated for all students and staff regardless of vaccination status. The testing requirement will remain in effect, according to ABC 7. 

The LA City Council also voted earlier this week to have the city’s attorney draft an ordinance requiring vaccination proof for public indoor spaces, including restaurants, bars, gyms, theatres and businesses, according to ABC 7.

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday announced a statewide requirement for all teachers and school employees in the state to show proof of vaccination or submit to weekly testing.

With Post wires

source: nypost.com