A woman participating in a Riverside protest was struck and seriously injured over the weekend by a motorist who drove through the crowd before speeding away, according to published reports.
The felony hit and run happened at 9:40 p.m. Saturday on University Avenue, between Main Street and Orange Avenue, police told reporters. A driver in a dark-colored SUV plowed through the demonstration without stopping after several protesters surrounded the vehicle, which was initially stopped in the middle of University Avenue as protesters filled the street and adjacent sidewalks.
Video posted on social media shows protesters gathering near the vehicle — one of whom strikes it with an object — before the SUV abruptly turns and accelerates through the crowd.
No other injuries were reported.
Police said the injured woman was hospitalized with significant injuries, and the search for the suspect was underway.
Multiple demonstrations with thousands in attendance earlier in the day were largely peaceful, according to law enforcement.
Riverside area protests were part of a nationwide No Kings demonstrations against the policies of President Donald Trump.
Rallies took place Saturday morning in Beaumont, Corona and Temecula, with evening demonstrations in Palm Springs and at Riverside’s Main Street Pedestrian Mall, near Main and University Avenue. In Rancho Mirage, thousands of people gathered for several blocks along Highway 111.
The protests were meant as a counterpoint to Saturday’s military parade in Washington, D.C., which honored the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army and coincided with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
Man arrested for alleged online threat vs. PS No Kings rally
A 28-year-old man suspected of posting an online threat to shoot people at the Palm Springs No Kings protest was out on bail Sunday.
Edward Miranda, of La Quinta, was arrested Saturday and booked into the Benoit Detention Center in Indio, suspected of making criminal threats and violating civil rights, police said.
He posted $200,000 bail Sunday.
Shortly after 2 p.m. Friday, Palm Springs police were notified of an online threat to target people at the upcoming rally. Officers worked with the FBI to identify Miranda as the suspect, according to the PSPD. Search warrants were served at his residence on Eisenhower Drive in La Quinta and another residence in San Bernardino County.
A firearm allegedly belonging to Miranda was seized at one of the properties, and police took him into custody without incident.
“We take all threats to public safety seriously and will vigorously pursue those intent on committing violence in our community,” Palm Springs Police Chief Andrew Mills said.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with additional information about the alleged threat was urged to contact the PSPD, 760-327-1441, or submit an anonymous tip via Crime Stoppers, 760-341-7867.
Updated June 16, 2025, 11:50 a.m.
