Tensions escalated as police surrounded the University of California, Irvine campus and began arresting proPalestinian demonstrators while dismantling an encampment on Wednesday. UCI called the gathering a “violent protest” and urged students to avoid the area. “Please disregard all previous orders to shelter in place. If able, please leave immediately & continue to avoid the protest area until further notice,” the university said.

Officers from several law enforcement agencies created a skirmish line near demonstrators, who were positioned both inside and outside of the encampment’s wood palette barriers. As authorities began moving in and dismantling the encampment, tensions rose as demonstrators expressed anger over the arrests and several scuffles broke out.

Officers removed tents and cabanas and piled them into a corner as they cleared the area. They eventually headed to the second floor of the Physical Science Lecture hall, detaining anyone who remained while also removing banners and signs draped over the balcony.

KTLA's Shelby Nelson and John Fenoglio report on May 15, 2024.

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