A tense confrontation erupted outside Minneapolis City Hall after a counter-protester dressed as Spider-Man confronted far-right activist Jake Lang.
Lang had organized an anti-Islam rally where he reportedly intended to burn a copy of the Holy Quran.
The incident quickly escalated as counter-protesters confronted Lang and several associates near City Hall.
Spider-Man-Costumed Protester Joins Confrontation
According to the reported account, Lang and several associates attempted to enter City Hall by driving their vehicles along the sidewalk.
The move triggered a strong reaction from people gathered nearby. Demonstrators threw water balloons, bottles and other objects toward the vehicles.
Amid the confrontation, a man wearing a Spider-Man costume climbed onto the back of one vehicle. He then appeared to strike Lang.
The situation escalated further as both sides used pepper spray during the confrontation.
Police Move to Control the Situation
Minneapolis interim Police Chief Bill Peterson said two vehicles suddenly drove onto the sidewalk near City Hall.
He said the vehicles moved rapidly, immediately creating a confrontation between the crowd and people inside them.
Initially, officers decided that making arrests was unsafe because of the large crowd. Instead, police focused on removing the vehicles from the area.
The move aimed to reduce tensions and restore order around City Hall.
Later, state police assisted Minneapolis officers in stopping both vehicles. Authorities then detained the people involved in the incident.
Minneapolis Mayor Warns of Legal Action
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also addressed the confrontation.
Frey said people who drive vehicles onto sidewalks and create a threat to public safety would face strict legal action.
Meanwhile, Jay Yates, an organizer with the Freedom Road Socialist Organization, criticised the police response.
Yates said protesters were not intimidated by what he described as racist activities. He also argued that public opposition could prevent such groups from achieving their objectives.
Jake Lang Held Without Bail
The confrontation ended with authorities taking action against those involved.Jake Lang was reportedly transferred to Hennepin County Jail without bail.
The incident has drawn attention because of the confrontation surrounding the anti-Islam rally. It also highlights the tensions that can emerge when opposing groups gather at the same location.
Meanwhile, police have focused on the actions involving the vehicles and the wider disturbance outside City Hall.
