Virginia demonstrators blocked a pro-Trump vehicle caravan and both sides clashed near a well-known Confederate monument on Sunday.
Protesters who oppose President Donald Trump halted the convoy by standing in the middle of the road, according to the Daily News-Record. The car parade then diverted its course to the Richmond statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, the local outlet reported.
Demonstrators allegedly worked their way down the line of stopped cars, brandished weapons and damaged vehicles, an attendee of the incident told the News-Record. A loud bang rang out during the clash and two protesters dubbed it a gunshot; however, another individual identified the noise as a car backfiring, the Virginia-based outlet reported.
A counter demonstrator claimed he “almost died” after a man fired a handgun at him from a white BMW, he told the news source. Additionally, Richmond Police said they were called to investigate a report of a firearm being discharged during the event, according to a press release.
Law enforcement is also looking into a call about a woman who was pepper sprayed during the confrontation, the department wrote.
“We were attacked violently,” a member of the pro-Trump convoy told the News-Record. “As you could see today, we have a culture of lawlessness and mob attack mentality.”
“It’s ridiculous that in the city of Richmond, you can’t drive down our roads without having people throw bottles at you and attack your vehicle and be violent towards you,” he continued.
The Sunday afternoon unrest resulted in main road closures near the monument. (RELATED: Multiple Arrests After Midday Clash Between NYPD And Anti-Trump Rioters)
Due to incidents at the Lee Circle today, the streets approaching the circle at Monument and Allen avenues are closed to traffic. Local traffic and emergency vehicles will be able to travel through the area. #rva pic.twitter.com/CGGXBFoX4D
— Richmond Police (@RichmondPolice) November 2, 2020
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