Chaos at University of California as pro-Palestinian protesters, counter-protesters clash

By Seda Sevencan

ISTANBUL (AA) - Chaos prevailed at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) late Tuesday night as violent clashes broke out at a pro-Palestinian encampment on the campus, with the violence raging for more than 90 minutes into early Wednesday morning.

According to ABC7 Eyewitness News, the clashes, which saw brawls escalating and barricades used as weapons, began just before 11 p.m. local time when a group of counter-protesters surrounded the pro-Palestinian encampment on the campus.

Multiple instances of fireworks being thrown inside the encampment and the number of injuries remains unclear as of now.

In response to the unfolding events, campus police confirmed to Eyewitness News that they are responding to the scene.

"Horrific acts of violence occurred at the encampment tonight and we immediately called law enforcement for mutual aid support. The fire department and medical personnel are on the scene. We are sickened by this senseless violence and it must end,” Mary Osako, vice chancellor for UCLA Strategic Communications, said in a statement.

Mayor Karen Bass spoke to UCLA Chancellor Gene Block and interim LAPD Chief Dominic Choi, according to a spokesperson.

"LAPD is responding immediately to Chancellor Block's request for support on campus," spokesperson Zach Seidl wrote on social media