A dramatic incident unfolded on the campus of Portland State University in Oregon, as captured in a video that has since gone viral. The footage shows a white Toyota sedan slowly approaching a group of people gathered on a street.
As tensions rise, a man can be heard shouting for individuals to stay away from the car. One person attempts to open the vehicle's door but is met with an unknown substance being sprayed from inside, prompting them to flee the scene.
Subsequently, a protester dressed in black smashes a part of the car's rear windshield, escalating the situation. The vehicle then accelerates towards the crowd, causing panic and forcing people to scatter in fear.
The video concludes with the driver abandoning the car and fleeing on foot while continuing to spray the substance at those who pursue him. Following the incident, the Portland Police Bureau confirmed that the driver has been apprehended and taken to a local hospital for a mental health evaluation.
Images of the vehicle reveal extensive damage, with its windows shattered and the phrase 'Free Gaza' spray-painted on the hood. The incident occurred against the backdrop of ongoing anti-Israel protests in the area, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.
This alarming event serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining peace and civility in public spaces, especially during times of heightened tensions. Authorities are continuing to investigate the motives behind the driver's actions and ensure the safety of the community in the aftermath of this unsettling incident.