Suspected Stabber At Dueling Vaccine Rallies Caught On Camera

Los Angeles CA

17 August, 2021

2:16 AM

Description

LOS ANGELES, CA — Police Monday released images of a man in black suspected of stabbing another man during dueling demonstrations in downtown Los Angeles over COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Hidden behind a black hoodie and black face covering, the images do little to shed light on the identity of the stabber. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the suspect was described as possibly white or Hispanic, between the ages of 20 and 30 with long blonde hair. He was last seen wearing the bandanna and hoodie and black skinny jeans with holes in the knees and white tennis shoes. The victim was stabbed in the upper chest at about 2 p.m. Saturday, according to the LAPD. He was released from the hospital the next day. The scuffle occurred at a gathering Saturday afternoon of supporters of mandatory vaccines dubbed the "No Safe Space For Fascists" rally at the intersection of 1st and Spring streets. Shortly after the pro vaccine group gathered, another group held a "Choose Freedom March" against "medical tyranny" at the same corner." Video from the scene showed the anti-vaccination crowd yelling at the other side from across First Street — some of whom were filming the demonstration — then attacking them, hollering among other things, "Unmask them!" The injured man was a member of the anti-vaccine group, the Los Angeles Times reported. Anyone with information on the stabbing was asked to call LAPD Central Area Detective Cheng at 213-996-1248. Calls made during non-business hours or on weekends should be made to 877-527-3247. Anonymous tips can be called in to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or submitted online at lacrimestoppers.org. City News Service contributed to this report.