Vancouver police are investigating a violent incident at a protest in the city's downtown as a potential hate crime.
One person, a youth, was arrested after the incident.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29, according to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), at Robson Square south of the Vancouver Art Gallery.
"Violence broke out between groups of protesters with opposing views about the war between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah," states the VPD in a press release.
Posts from the group Free Palestine BC on social media show an event was planned for Sunday evening starting at 6:30 p.m. protesting Israel's recent attacks in Lebanon.
"A 34-year-old woman sustained injuries and required medical attention at hospital after being knocked to the ground, assaulted, and subjected to anti-Semitic slurs," according to the VPD.
"The suspect fled into the crowd following the assault, and a youth was later arrested," continues the release.
The suspect has since been released. Police have not released details about who the suspect is beyond being a "youth."
The VPD's major crimes section is currently investigating the incident as a hate crime, states the VPD. No charges have been approved.
“Violence, hatred, and intimidation have no place in Vancouver, and the VPD will do everything in its power to solve crimes and apprehend offenders, so that people can be safe in their community,” says Sgt. Steve Addison in the release.
