Pasadena attack being investigated as hate crime

A recent attack outside a Pasadena restaurant and nightclub that was hosting its weekly drag night was being investigated as a hate crime, authorities said Thursday.

“We are aware of and are actively investigating an incident that occurred last week as patrons were leaving the Ixtapa Cantina,” the Pasadena Police Department said in a tweet. “The incident is being investigated as a hate crime and we are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to provide any information.

“We thank those community members who have already come forward to provide some information and we encourage others to do the same by calling the police department or by contacting Los Angeles Crime Stoppers,” police said. “We are committed to ensuring the public’s safety and will be providing resources and referrals to services for those who were affected by this crime.”

The attack occurred about 2:30 a.m. Friday outside the restaurant and nightclub on Colorado Boulevard, according to police Lt. Bill Grisafe.

No arrests have been reported, Grisafe said.

On the night of the attack, the business was having its weekly drag night, bar owner Jack Huang told the Los Angeles Times, which reported that multiple men instigated the unprovoked violence against the victims.

The business, located in the city’s popular Old Town area, began hosting the event about six months ago, and Huang said it draws a large LGBTQ crowd.

Three men detailed the incident in an interview with ABC7, showing graphic photos of their bruised and bloodied faces. Diamond Gonzalez, of El Monte, told the outlet that he was struck from behind and that the blow “knocked me out cold.”

Grisafe said comments reportedly made by the attackers prompted the authorities to investigate the incident as a hate crime. Other details were not released.

Anyone with information on the case was urged to call police at 626- 744-4241, or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.

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