Two Men Arrested for Assault on San Francisco Mayor's Bodyguards
Two men are in custody following an alleged attack on police officers who were serving as bodyguards for San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie, according to authorities. The incident occurred on Thursday evening in the Tenderloin neighborhood, a known trouble spot for public drug use and dealing.
Violent Altercation in the Tenderloin
The suspects were part of a group that blocked the vehicle of Mayor Lurie and his security team. Witnesses reported to Mission Local, a San Francisco news organization, that the men became violent after one of the officers asked them to move. A video obtained by the outlet shows one bodyguard, dressed in a suit, struggling with a man who throws him to the ground.
Charles Lutvak, a spokesperson for Mayor Lurie, confirmed that there was an altercation involving the mayor's security detail but emphasized that Lurie was not involved and remained unharmed. It was unclear what the mayor was doing in the Tenderloin at the time, though he is known for frequently walking around the city to engage with residents.
Police Response and Injuries
San Francisco police officers responded to the scene after receiving a request for backup from Lurie's bodyguards, who reported being in a physical altercation with two unidentified men. In a statement, the San Francisco Police Department said the officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated by paramedics at the scene.
Charges and Arrests
The two men were arrested on suspicion of multiple charges, including assaulting a peace officer with a deadly weapon, resisting a peace officer, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in the Tenderloin area, which has been a focal point for issues related to crime and public health. Authorities are urging calm and assuring the public that measures are in place to protect city officials and residents alike.
