Michael Drake, the University of California’s systemwide president, has opened an investigation into how UCLA handled the violence that unfolded at a pro-Palestinian encampment on Tuesday night.
In a letter to UC’s board of regents, Drake said he requested a “detailed accounting from the campus about what transpired” and ordered an “independent review of the university’s planning, its actions and the response by law enforcement.”
“I believe such a review can address many of my immediate questions but also help guide us for possible future events,” Drake wrote in the letter, which was first reported by the Los Angeles Times.
The investigation comes after about 50 counter-protesters wearing dark clothing, hoods and white masks covering their faces stormed the barricade surrounding the encampment, trying to tear it down.
Unarmed security guards were forced to flee as fireworks were launched at the encampment, exploding near the tents that had overtaken Royce Quad.
Aerial footage from Sky5 captured the chaotic scene, including countless clashes between the two sides.
At the request of UCLA officials, LAPD was sent to the campus early Wednesday morning to restore order and maintain safety.
State officials like Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued statements deploring the violence.
“I condemn the violence at UCLA last night. The law is clear: The right to free speech does not extend to inciting violence, vandalism, or lawlessness on campus,” a portion of the governor’s statement said.
The Jewish Federation of Los Angeles also issued a statement Wednesday denouncing the violent attacks on the encampment.
“We are appalled at the violence that took place on the campus of UCLA last night. The abhorrent actions of a few counter-protestors last night do not represent the Jewish community or our values. We believe in peaceful, civic discourse,” a portion of the statement read.
Pro-Palestinian protesters are demanding UCLA divest all interests in Israel and are calling for an immediate halt to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Counter-protesters are calling for the release of Israeli hostages taken captive on Oct. 7 by Hamas have used screens and speakers to blast images and stories of survivors just feet away from the encampment.
UCLA declared the encampment unlawful in a letter issued just hours before the violent confrontations began. Officials also asked demonstrators to leave the area and stated that those who decide to stay could face disciplinary measures, including suspension or expulsion, the Daily Bruin reported.
School officials also announced that Royce Hall will be closed through Friday and that Powell Library won’t reopen until Monday. All classes were canceled Wednesday morning.
