Three arrested after far-right, antifa groups clash in Portland protests

Rival demonstrations by far-right and anti-fascist groups turned into violent street clashes in Portland, Oregon, Saturday, resulting in multiple injuries and arrests. 

The Portland Police Bureau said in a statement late Saturday that three people were arrested on charges ranging from assault to harassment and that medical personnel treated eight people, including three police officers.

Three people were hospitalized, police said.{mosads}

The violent incidents occurred after tensions escalated between members of the so-called Proud Boys, a far-right group that has been banned by Facebook for offensive speech, and anti-fascist groups that include Antifa, a coalition of left-leaning activists who oppose them, congregated in downtown Portland, The Oregonian reported.

Police reported the demonstrations became violent when some demonstrators starting throwing milkshakes of quick-drying cement and using pepper spray.

People arrested included Gage Halupowski, 23, who was charged with multiple counts of assault, including on a public safety officer; James K. Stocks, 21, who was charged with harassment; and Maria Dehart, 23, who was charged on counts of disorderly conduct and harassment, according to Portland Police.

Andy Ngo, a sub-editor and photo journalist at Quillette, a conservative website, said he was attacked by anti-fascist protesters and taken to the hospital for head and facial injuries, according to the Associated Press. 

Portland police used pepper spray and other non-lethal force to clear protesters from the intersection of Morrison Avenue and 5th and 6th Avenues.

The protests stopped traffic throughout much of downtown Portland until the crowds dispersed after police declared a civil disturbance and unlawful assembly shortly after 3 p.m., according to The Oregonian.

Violent clashes occurred when the rival groups of protesters met near Pioneer Square.