A Turning Point USA (TPUSA) event at the University of California, Berkeley, descended into chaos Monday night after violent clashes broke out between protesters and supporters, leading to multiple arrests and the launch of a federal investigation.
Chaos and Confrontation
- The Event: The incident occurred during the final night of TPUSA’s “This Is The Turning Point” tour, featuring Rob Schneider and Dr. Frank Turek.
- The Conflict: Hundreds of demonstrators, some waving keffiyehs and protesting against “fascist sc**,” clashed with event attendees and law enforcement near Bancroft Way.
- Police Response: Officers from the Berkeley Police Department, California Highway Patrol, and campus security donned riot gear, shields, and batons as the crowd grew volatile.
- Panic: At one point, a passing car blared what sounded like gunfire, causing dozens of people to panic and dive for cover.
Federal Investigation Initiated
Attorney General Pamela Bondi confirmed that the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force has opened an investigation into the violence.
“Antifa is an existential threat to our nation,” Bondi stated. “The violent riots at UC Berkeley last night are under full investigation… We will continue to spare no expense unmasking all who commit and orchestrate acts of political violence.”
The Department of Justice will also examine potential security failures. The investigation follows President Trump’s Executive Order designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.
Key Arrest and Accusations
- TPUSA Blames Antifa: Mikey McCoy, former chief of staff to Charlie Kirk, accused Antifa members of breaking through police barricades and threatening event attendees.
- Specific Arrest: Authorities identified and arrested Jihad Dphrepaulezz, 25, on charges of assault and robbery. Dphrepaulezz allegedly snatched a chain necklace from a TPUSA supporter, sparking a violent confrontation that left the victim bloodied and dazed.
University Response
UC Berkeley spokesperson Dan Mogulof condemned all acts of violence while reiterating the university’s support for free speech, stating that police worked to protect both attendees and demonstrators.
