VIDEO: Protesters flee library as police make arrests at Portland State University
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – The Portland State University library occupation came to a rapid close Thursday morning as police made their way into the building to make arrests.
KOIN 6 News captured video of the protesters fleeing the scene as officers entered the building wearing riot gear and armed with 40mm “less-lethal” launchers. The agency previously shared they did not plan to use tear gas inside the building, but it appears that chemical munitions had been released in the open air around 10 a.m.
Police make entry into PSU’s library to begin clearing, shelter in place declared
The Portland Police Bureau entered the library just before 8 a.m., moving slowly through and clearing barricades as they went. By 9 a.m., they had made their way into the building as protesters ran from the area and some faced arrest.
Portland police announced the library had been cleared by 10:30 a.m. Inside, police said they “found caches of tools, what appears to be improvised weapons, ball bearings, paint balloons, spray bottles of ink, and DIY armor.”
PPB released photos of 18 protesters who were seen running away from the PSU library in an attempt to ask the public’s help in identifying them. The images can be seen below.
Portland police are asking the public's help in identifying protesters who were seen running away from the PSU library following a days-long occupation. May 2, 2024 (courtesy Portland Police Bureau). Portland police are asking the public's help in identifying protesters who were seen running away from the PSU library following a days-long occupation. May 2, 2024 (courtesy Portland Police Bureau).
By 4:30 p.m., police said they made 22 arrests, with only seven of those being PSU students. After 5 p.m., protesters returned to the library and re-entered the building.
15 Portland police cars burned overnight at training facility
Police Chief Bob Day spoke with KOIN 6 News Thursday morning, sharing the agency’s plans and its efforts to maintain their previously reported de-escalation tactics.
“It saddens me to see the unwillingness for people to exercise their First Amendment rights in a way that gets their message out but also protects the rights of others,” Chief Bob Day said.
As the day progresses, the area from Southwest Broadway to Southwest 11th Street and between Southwest College Street and Southwest Mill Street the roads are closed off. Southwest Broadway is still open to pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
PSU is closed for the day as arrests continue. They released the following statement Thursday morning:
“Portland State University is grateful for the assistance of the Portland Police Bureau, Oregon State Police, Gov. Tina Kotek, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler and Chief Bob Day for their partnership. What we’ve seen take place so far on the Park Blocks, while distressing to see, has been peaceful and calm overall, which is an immense relief. The safety and well being of our campus community is our top priority.”
Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.
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