Turning Point USA: Fights break out, multiple people arrested as event sparks protest at UC Berkeley, California
Turning Point USA wrapped up its nationwide campus tour Monday night at UC Berkeley in California, marking two months since the death of its founder, Charlie Kirk , who was killed while speaking at a Utah college.
The final event drew hundreds of attendees to Zellerbach Hall, and many protestors outside. Demonstrators, including students and activists, gathered hours before doors opened, chanting with signs.
Organizers anticipated protests, but tensions escalated quickly. At one point, the entrance line had to be moved further down the block, due to crowding and confrontations. Ticketing issues also emerged, with some speakers blaming the university for logistical mishaps.
Outside the venue, protestors voiced strong opposition to Turning Point USA being on UC Berkeley's campus.
"We're using our facilities, resources to do it, which I think is just crazy. Go somewhere else, we don't want you here," said Stella, a student protestor.
"Events like this should never happen on this campus or anywhere again," added another masked demonstrator.
Inside, the event continued despite the unrest. Supporters of Kirk and Turning Point USA remained undeterred.
One attendee, Grace Fortune, said she got dirty looks on campus for wearing a T-shirt that had mentions of Jesus and Kirk.
"When you see someone that courageous with their faith, you're like why am I not that courageous with my faith" said Fortune. "I shouldn't be afraid to wear a shirt that says 'Jesus' on it."
Fortune said while purchasing a T-shirt for her husband from a street vendor, she witnessed him get beat up by a protestor. ABC7 News cameras captured the vendor, with a bloody face, getting escorted away by police while another man was arrested.
Bernt Wahl, another attendee said he is more neutral.
"I want to encourage free ideas, don't want one side to dominate the other," said Wahl. "There are valid points on both sides."
MORE: Erika Kirk elected as new CEO for Turning Point USA after husband's death
Actor Rob Schneider, one of the evening's speakers, criticized the university's handling of the event and broader free speech issues: "Shame on you, Berkeley," he said.
Addressing protestors, he added, "They're coming from a place of emotion, and that's tough."
Even without Kirk, the event concluded with Turning Point USA's signature "Prove Me Wrong" format, inviting attendees to ask questions and share their perspectives.
Outside, protestors remained vocal throughout the evening, shouting at attendees as they exited. Police stayed throughout the night, escorting attendees as they left campus.
