Part 6/13:
The violence on July 4th was particularly intense. A flare was reportedly thrown at federal officers, prompting a swift response and arrests. Law enforcement used crowd dispersal tactics—tear gas, rubber bullets, and other measures—to push back activists who continued to interfere with federal operations. The chaos culminated in what appeared to be a war zone, with tear gas and smoke swirling through the streets, as police and protesters clashed repeatedly.
Several officers and protesters were injured during the melee, and residents in surrounding high-rises faced the unnerving sight of a street embroiled in violence. Critics argue that the city's leadership is failing to restore order, effectively enabling the protesters' lawlessness.