Sunnyvale Man Arrested for Assault During Pro-Palestinian Vigil

BREAKING: A Sunnyvale man has been arrested after a violent confrontation during a pro-Palestinian demonstration on an overcrossing above Highway 101. Joshua Krupia, aged 41, was taken into custody following an incident that escalated into physical violence and vandalism just before 5:30 PM on November 7, 2023.

Witnesses report that Krupia approached demonstrators who were holding a vigil for Gaza, cutting down flags and banners while yelling racist slurs. The demonstration, organized by volunteers affiliated with the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), aimed to advocate for Palestinian rights. The situation turned violent when Krupia allegedly struck one protester in the head with a flashlight and punched another in the face, causing minor injuries.

Authorities confirm that when police arrived, Krupia was already being detained by bystanders. He now faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon and has been booked into Santa Clara County Jail.

CAIR-SFBA Director Zahra Billoo expressed outrage at the incident, stating, “This was not just vandalism—it was a hate-motivated attack that left people injured while exercising their right to free expression.” The organization is calling for justice and emphasizing the importance of protecting peaceful demonstrations.

This incident highlights a growing tension surrounding public demonstrations advocating for Palestinian rights, raising concerns about safety and freedom of expression in communities across the nation. As the situation develops, authorities are likely to increase security measures at future events to prevent similar occurrences.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.