Two independent journalists reported being assaulted during immigrant protests in Seattle, with local media and city officials accused of ignoring violence from radical leftist groups.
Cameron Higby, an investigative journalist who covers protests—particularly those that escalate—shared his alarming experience at an anti-ICE rally in downtown Seattle. As night fell, he witnessed Antifa become aggressive and block streets. A video he posted shows rioters attempting to break into a building and prevent vehicles from passing. Higby recounted how Antifa stopped a driver, demanding he shout “F-ICE,” setting a fire under the car when he refused. One bystander described the scene as “very scary,” mentioning she left her car in traffic.
Later, when things quieted down, Higby sat on the sidewalk. Despite dressing similarly to Antifa members and wearing a gas mask, he was recognized by a man who told him to leave.
Higby described being ambushed by multiple assailants who attempted to remove his mask and helmet. He was choked, punched twice in the head, and kicked in the face. He used pepper spray to defend himself, but they fled after the altercation. Following the attack, he experienced severe symptoms requiring a hospital visit.
Higby, who claims to have faced violence at protests before, stated this was one of the most brutal incidents he has encountered. He expressed relief that he was wearing a helmet, suggesting it spared him from more serious injury. He noted that he had to secure his belongings before leaving the scene, as the police were reportedly instructed not to intervene during the protests. He said a detective is currently handling his case, but the process has been slow.
Meanwhile, Brandi Kruze, another independent journalist, was also attacked during a separate anti-ICE protest in Tukwila, Washington. She had initially covered a peaceful protest when things escalated after Antifa arrived to disrupt immigration enforcement activities. Within moments, she faced a barrage of hostility, including being doused with water and assaulted as she attempted to report on the scene.
Kruze noted that Antifa turned violent quickly upon realizing a veteran was with her team, attacking him as well. Fortunately, another civilian provided a timely escape from the chaotic situation. Kruze has extensive experience in journalism and has faced similar attacks in the past.
She criticized local leftist media, claiming they downplay violence from these groups and mischaracterize protests, framing police actions as the primary instigators of any violence. Despite her incidents, she remains focused on reporting the truth about these protests and the threats they pose to journalists.
