Ventura County investigates tragic death at dueling rallies. Details unfold in pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian clash.
Tragic Incident in Ventura County
Authorities in Ventura County, California, are currently investigating the unfortunate death of Paul Kessler, a 69-year-old Jewish man. The incident unfolded during a physical altercation at dueling pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian rallies in Thousand Oaks.
Altercation Details
Witnesses reported that Kessler was involved in a confrontation with counter-protestors during the rallies. In the course of the altercation, he fell backward, striking his head on the ground. The incident took place around 3:20 p.m. on a Sunday in the community of Thousand Oaks, just over the Ventura County line.
Medical Examiner’s Determination
Kessler was promptly taken to a hospital but tragically passed away on Monday. The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death to be a blunt force head injury, classifying it as a homicide.
Simultaneous Rallies
The rallies, advocating for both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian perspectives, were occurring concurrently at Westlake and Thousand Oaks boulevards, according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department.
Ongoing Investigation
The sheriff’s department has launched an active investigation into the incident and is seeking information from anyone present at the demonstrations. The possibility of a hate crime has not been ruled out, and the authorities are urging cooperation from the public.
Lack of Incident Details
As of now, the sheriff’s department has not provided additional details about how Kessler sustained his injuries during the altercation.
Community Responses
Rabbi Michael Barclay of Temple Ner Simcha, located near the incident site, has called for patience, urging against assumptions or accusations until the police complete their investigation. Kessler’s family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Political Caution
The incident has garnered attention in the context of heightened tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Senior politicians in Israel have condemned Kessler’s death, emphasizing the importance of addressing antisemitism. The Los Angeles area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has expressed condolences while cautioning against exploiting the tragedy for political purposes.
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Press Conference Expected
Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff is expected to hold a news conference on Tuesday morning to provide further updates. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident, according to the sheriff’s department’s latest statement on Monday night.