Adelaide, Australia — A 20-year-old man dressed in a furry costume was violently assaulted outside Rundle Mall on Saturday, provoking widespread outrage. Dennis Gunn, who was promoting his campaign for a fictional “Furry Party” during an election stunt, suffered physical injuries in an attack allegedly carried out by three male assailants.
Witnesses captured the altercation on video, which shows Gunn being kicked in the head before falling to the ground. Prior to the incident, he had been engaging with families at the mall, taking photos and interacting with children, creating a friendly atmosphere.
“It happened suddenly,” Gunn recounted. “One moment I was just having fun, and the next I was being attacked.” He described a chaotic scene where his costume was torn and he was subjected to multiple blows. Friends who were present attempted to intervene but were unable to stop the assault quickly enough.
Despite the severity of the attack, Gunn reported feeling a sense of resilience and determination. He mentioned that he had received death threats following the incident but preferred to focus on the positivity he encountered instead. “I’m in good spirits because of the support from people all around the world,” he said. “This experience won’t stop me from doing what I love.”
Gunn, who enjoys participating in “public suiting” as a hobby, vowed to continue sharing his passion with others. “I’ve got a bruise on my head, but that’s not going to take away my joy,” he noted. The footage he shared on social media showcases both his enthusiasm and the troubling reaction he faced.
The South Australia Police are currently investigating the incident. According to a law enforcement spokesperson, the suspects fled the scene before officers arrived, and although Gunn was evaluated by paramedics, he did not require further medical attention. The police have encouraged anyone with information about the attack to come forward.
The incident has sparked conversations about safety and tolerance in public spaces, especially for individuals celebrating different identities. Many supporters have rallied behind Gunn, urging for increased awareness around such acts of violence. As investigations continue, the community remains vigilant and hopeful for justice.