Authorities in Tennessee have released compelling video evidence that directly contradicts claims an anti-ICE activist was struck by a police vehicle during a volatile protest in Memphis.
Video Evidence Counters Viral Narrative
The incident occurred during nationwide protests over the weekend, which were sparked by the fatal shooting of Minnesota activist Renee Nicole Good by a federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer. In Memphis, tensions flared as hundreds of demonstrators gathered on Sunday.
A video that circulated widely on social media appeared to show a person being hit by a Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) vehicle, fuelling significant online outrage. However, the THP moved to quash this narrative by publishing the official dashboard camera footage from the patrol car involved.
The footage clearly shows a man wearing an orange reflective vest walking in front of the vehicle as it comes to a complete stop. He is then seen grabbing the car's bull bars and gently lowering himself onto the road before standing back up.
Official Statement and Arrest Details
In a statement, the THP said: "In this case, video clearly shows the individual holding onto the front of the trooper’s vehicle, lying down, then standing right back up afterwards and leaving the scene under his own power." The force emphasised that the video does not show the individual being run over or injured at any point, despite claims to the contrary on social media.
The THP labelled the claim that someone was hit as "false" and issued a warning about the dangers of walking in front of patrol vehicles. "We respect and protect the right of people to protest peacefully. That right, however, does not include entering active roadways or placing themselves in danger," the statement read.
One arrest was reported during Sunday's protest. Rebecca Ann Leathers was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting detention after allegedly standing in front of a THP vehicle, attacking its windows, and becoming violent during her arrest, according to officers.
Protests Spread Across the United States
The killing of Renee Nicole Good has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over immigration policy, leading to demonstrations in several major US cities:
- In Austin, Texas, at least five people were taken into custody on Saturday night after anti-ICE demonstrators blocked traffic.
- In Los Angeles, hundreds flooded downtown streets, prompting police to issue dispersal orders and form skirmish lines outside federal buildings.
The THP concluded its statement by reiterating its primary duty: "Our priority is always public safety for motorists, protesters and certainly our troopers. When someone enters the roadway, it creates a serious and immediate risk, and troopers are trained to respond to prevent injuries or worse outcomes."
