Photo: JONATHAN ALCORN / AFP / Getty Images
Authorities have identified the driver of a U-Haul truck who drove through a crowd of anti-Iranian demonstrators in Los Angeles as 48-year-old Calor Madanescht. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed the arrest on suspicion of reckless driving. The incident occurred on Sunday (January 11) near the Federal Building at Veteran Avenue and Ohio Avenue, an area known for its large Iranian community.
Video footage captured the chaotic scene as the truck drove into the crowd, causing protesters to scatter. Some protesters attempted to strike Madanescht with objects, including flag poles and trash, before police intervened. One protester received minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
The truck bore signs with messages opposing the views of the protesters, which led to heightened tensions. Demonstrators tore the signs off the truck, and some attempted to attack Madanescht. The LAPD formed a skirmish line to separate the truck from the crowd and took Madanescht into custody.
The LAPD stated that Madanescht intended to convey a message at the demonstration but became overwhelmed by the situation. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating to determine if the actions were politically motivated.
The protest was part of a larger movement in solidarity with opposition groups in Iran, where demonstrations have erupted over economic issues and calls for regime change. Over 530 people have been killed in Iran amid the protests.