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Portland Police Declare Riot Twice on July 4

Authorities in Portland, Oregon, declared a riot twice on July 4 as anti-racism protests continued in the city for a 38th day.

Police declared a riot early on Independence Day and again late that night. Eyewitness video showed officers dodging fireworks, while police reported “firework mortars and paint” were thrown at them.

According to local reports, protests passed off peacefully for most of the day, but late that night some people began directing fireworks at the Justice Center, located downtown. In a statement police said that a riot was declared shortly after 11 pm before officers used tear gas and other means to clear the area.

Police Chief Chuck Lovell described the situation as unacceptable. “Our community deserves better than nightly criminal activity,” he said.

This police body camera video, posted early on July 5, shows fireworks exploding near officers. Credit: Portland Police via Storyful