Tensions boiled over at the University of California, Berkeley on Monday as a bloody brawl broke out outside Zellerbach Hall, where a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) event was scheduled to take place later that evening.
Helicopter footage from KTVU Fox 2 captured chaotic scenes of protesters, police, and attendees clashing near the venue. The crowd outside swelled throughout the afternoon, with chants, signs, and heated arguments dominating the campus atmosphere. Police were soon forced to intervene as multiple fights erupted, leading to at least two arrests and several detentions.
Violence Breaks Out as Protesters Confront Attendees
According to Fox News reports, the violence began when agitators staged a protest against the TPUSA event, sparking confrontations with people waiting in line to enter the hall. Two men were seen fighting as a mob formed around them, prompting a rapid police response.
Video footage shows law enforcement officers detaining individuals and escorting them into police cars, as security teams attempted to restore order. Witnesses described the scene as tense and chaotic, with emotions running high on both sides.
“Emotions are high and tensions are rising,” one reporter said during a live broadcast. “We’ve seen physical altercations and intense shouting matches between protesters and attendees.”
The university confirmed that it had deployed additional police units from both the Berkeley Police Department and UC Berkeley campus security. TPUSA also brought in private security personnel to maintain safety inside and outside the event.
Heightened Security and Strict Entry Rules
In anticipation of unrest, UC Berkeley implemented enhanced security measures for entry into Zellerbach Hall. Attendees were required to pass through screening checkpoints and adhere to strict ID and ticket verification protocols.
Despite these precautions, the scene outside remained volatile. Protesters accused the university of “platforming hate” by allowing TPUSA to host the event, while co
“Some Cal students say they’re disappointed the school is allowing the event to happen,” reported KTVU. “Others insist that silencing speakers sets a dangerous precedent for academic freedom.”
As the evening progressed, large crowds continued to gather, with law enforcement maintaining a visible presence around the hall. Police vehicles lined the surrounding streets, and officers were stationed at every entrance to prevent further outbreaks of violence.
A Night Marked by Emotion and Reflection
The TPUSA event carried added emotional weight — it marked two months since the assassination of TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who had been a polarizing figure on college campuses nationwide.
Organizers described the event as both a memorial and a call to continue Kirk’s mission of promoting conservative values among young Americans. However, critics saw it as an attempt to inflame division, and many turned out to voice their opposition.
“This isn’t just about one event,” said one student protester. “It’s about what kind of speech we allow on campus — and what kind of message that sends.”
While the university emphasized its commitment to freedom of expression, administrators acknowledged concerns over safety and public order.
Police Maintain Control as Night Unfolds
As of late evening, multiple law enforcement agencies remained on site, monitoring the crowd as the TPUSA event began inside Zellerbach Hall. Police confirmed that at least two people were detained, but the total number of arrests could rise as investigations continue.
Fox News described the incident as a “bloody brawl” that disrupted an already tense atmosphere, underscoring the ongoing divide between political factions on college campuses.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those arrested, and no serious injuries have been reported. The situation remains under review by both UC Berkeley officials and the Berkeley Police Department.
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