Politics & Government
Dueling Rallies Create Chaos In Downtown Portland
A ring-wing rally attracted counter-protesters Saturday.
PORTLAND, OR -- Chaos erupted Saturday in downtown Portland after a far-right rally drew counter-protesters. The rally, which was aimed at promoting gun rights and free speech, became chaotic after police reportedly released flashbangs to control the crowds.
"Portland Police said the flashbangs were used to break up a group that they say threw rocks and bottles at officers dressed in riot gear who were patrolling to keep the protesters separated," USA Today reported. "Several people were seen being detained by officers in the aftermath of the flashbangs."
Following the reported rock-throwing, protesters were told to immediately leave the premises, according to Portland Police Department's Twitter account. Weapons were also seized during the event.
Find out what's happening in Portlandfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The rally is one of several that has been held in Portland in recent months, but Mayor Ted Wheeler said he was particularly concerned about this rally producing violence, USA Today reported.
Associated Press reported a journalist was also injured while covering the event.
Find out what's happening in Portlandfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Amid the dueling rallies, Twitter users took to social media to share images and videos of the event. Check them out below.
Read the full USA Today story here.
#BREAKING PHOTO: A local reporter was struck by an object during the Portland protests. He has left to seek medical attention Pic via @TylerDumontNews pic.twitter.com/C1Bn7lMP3o
— Al Boe BREAKING NEWS (@AlBoeNEWS) August 4, 2018
Good Nazis-beaten Nazis pic.twitter.com/kKQDorehEV#Portland #DefendPDX
— Protest SPb (@ProtestSPb) August 4, 2018
Portland Protests: - Clashes erupt between Patriot Prayer protesters and Antifa counter-protesters in Portland, Oregon - Police declare that protests are a ‘civil disturbance’ and people must disperse - Police throw flash grenades to disperse Antifa crowdspic.twitter.com/Knngx96LQI
— PM Breaking News (@PMBreakingNews) August 4, 2018
Police move to clear rowdy protests in Portland, Oregon: https://t.co/Sc6JSF5kI0 (from @AP) pic.twitter.com/qY7jk2trAE
— @Gabenewsinfo (@Gabenewsinfo) August 4, 2018
Violent Antifa demonstrators vastly out-numbered by peaceful pro-liberty groups at Portland protests https://t.co/wFFJaAhqhP pic.twitter.com/zgoI3uyQnv
— Olive Branch Report (@OliveBranchRPT) August 4, 2018
Photo: Far-Right protesters rally for gun rights' laws and free speech on August 4, 2018 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Karen Ducey/Getty Images)
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