Donald Trump supporters leaving the presidential candidate’s rally in San Jose were pounced by protesters, some of whom threw punches and eggs.
A dozen or more people were hit and car windows were broken. Trump hats grabbed from supporters were set on fire on the ground. One least one woman was pelted with an egg.
The police stood their ground at first but after about 90 minutes moved into the remaining crowd to break it up and make arrests. At least four people were taken into custody, though the police didn’t release total arrest figures Thursday night. One officer was assaulted, police Sgt. Enrique Garcia said.
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There were no immediate reports of injuries and no major property damage, the police said.
The crowd, which had numbered over 300 just after the rally, thinned significantly as the night went on, but those that remained near the San Jose Convention Centre were rowdy and angry.
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Some banged on the cars of Trump supporters as they left the rally and chased after those on foot to frighten them.
The police were keeping their distance from the crowd as the scuffles played out, but keeping them from getting any closer to the convention centre. “Our police officers have done an extremely courageous and professional job so far,” San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo told The Associated Press by phone. “We’re all still holding our breath to see the outcome of this dangerous and explosive situation.” The mayor also criticised Mr. Trump for coming to cities and igniting problems that local police departments had to deal with. — AP