An 80-year-old military veteran was surrounded by a group of demonstrators and knocked to the ground during an anti-ICE protest in Washington state after he arrived with a sign supporting federal immigration enforcement, sparking a criminal investigation by the King County Sheriff’s Office.

Confrontation Captured on Video

The incident unfolded on June 10 in Burien, a King County suburb located 12 miles south of downtown Seattle. Video footage reviewed by The Highline Journal shows a woman directing verbal attacks at the veteran through a loudspeaker while he held his pro-ICE sign. A man wearing a shirt reading “Anti-Fascism – No Kings in America” engaged the veteran during the confrontation before a woman struck him from behind, sending him to the ground as voices shouted, “You’re down! You are down!”

The veteran, who requested anonymity due to fears of retaliation, told reporters he attended the demonstration to peacefully exercise his First Amendment rights. The protest was reportedly organized by Des Moines, WA Indivisible. He said the situation escalated when additional protesters arrived, with approximately 10 to 12 people surrounding him before the physical altercation occurred. Not everyone at the protest was hostile, he noted, and one woman returned his sunglasses after they fell off during the incident.

Sheriff’s Office Seeks Suspect

The King County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the assault occurred and continues to investigate. Brandyn Hull, communications manager for the agency, said detectives are actively searching for the suspect responsible for punching the victim multiple times. On June 17, the Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook requesting public assistance in identifying the assailant involved in the altercation at Southwest 148th Street and Ambaum Boulevard. Anyone with information is asked to call 206-296-3311.

Veteran Stands By His Decision

Despite the attack, the 80-year-old veteran said he does not regret speaking out at the demonstration. He explained his presence by saying, “After all, it’s about love, not hate.” Referencing the principle that evil succeeds when good people remain silent, he encouraged others to stand up and do what is right. The case remains open as authorities work to identify and locate the suspect responsible for the assault on the elderly veteran exercising his constitutional rights.