A recent incident in Newton, Massachusetts has sparked controversy and raised questions about the ongoing conflict in Gaza. According to reports from Fox News, a pro-Israel demonstrator, Scott Hayes, was charged after shooting a man who ran across the street and tackled him during a heated dispute about the war in Gaza.
Hayes has been charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, as well as violation of a constitutional right causing injury. The incident occurred while Hayes and a group of pro-Israel supporters were protesting at an intersection in Newton. The altercation escalated quickly, with the man wearing a Palestinian flag pin accusing the protesters of "defending genocide" and calling them "sick."
Video footage shows the man running across the street and attacking Hayes, who then fired his gun, injuring the attacker. Two other pro-Israel demonstrators were seen stomping on the attacker before dragging him off Hayes. The shooting victim suffered life-threatening injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Hayes, who is an Iraq War veteran, legally owns the firearm and has been actively participating in demonstrations defending the Jewish people's right to self-determination. A GoFundMe page has been launched to support Hayes, raising over $100,000.
Authorities are investigating the incident, with Mayor Ruthanne Fuller calling it a "frightening incident" and urging patience as investigators gather more information. Acting Newton Police Chief George McMains has requested anyone with information or video of the incident to come forward.
As the investigation unfolds, tensions remain high in the community. Extra police patrols have been deployed to monitor houses of worship in the area. It is still early in the investigation, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of what transpired during the altercation in Newton.