Los Angeles, California – Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass drew comparisons on Wednesday between the recent violence at UCLA and the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, describing the events as sudden and unexpected.
The chaotic scene unfolded on the night of April 30, as a large group descended upon the UCLA campus in Westwood, attacking pro-Palestinian protesters who had been staging an encampment outside Royce Hall since April 25. The assailants tore down barricades, threw projectiles, set off fireworks, and deployed mace, resulting in injuries to several individuals.
Despite the violent nature of the attack, no arrests have been made as of yet. Authorities from UCLA, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the FBI are collaborating to identify the perpetrators responsible for the assault on the encampment.
Mayor Bass, who was present at the U.S. Capitol during the January 6 insurrection, expressed profound shock at the similarities between the two events. She emphasized the need to address any potential coordination among the perpetrators, raising concerns about the level of planning that went into the UCLA attack.
Criticism has also been directed towards UCLA Police Chief John Thomas, who has faced scrutiny for alleged security lapses leading up to the violent clashes on campus. Questions have arisen regarding the chief’s handling of security measures, particularly his failure to create a written safety plan amidst escalating tensions.
In response to mounting pressure, UC President Michael V. Drake has initiated an independent investigation into the incident, appointing Philadelphia’s former police chief to lead the probe. Meanwhile, Chief Thomas has maintained that he advised university leadership against allowing the encampment, citing concerns over potential disruptions and escalating conflicts.
Mayor Bass has called into question the timing and adequacy of the law enforcement response, citing delays in mobilizing additional support from the LAPD during the attack. Despite assurances from Chief Thomas about a swift response, logistical issues reportedly hindered the prompt deployment of resources to quell the violence.
The aftermath of the UCLA incident has reignited debates over campus security protocols and the handling of protests, prompting calls for accountability and reform within the university’s administration. As investigations continue and criticisms mount, the focus remains on addressing the systemic failures that contributed to the violent altercation at UCLA.