Petaluma Police Investigate Altercation Between Protesters and Pickup Truck
Petaluma police are investigating an altercation between protesters and a pickup truck during Saturday’s ‘No Kings’ demonstration in town, the department said. The event drew hundreds of participants and remained peaceful for most of the day.
According to police, a group of protesters entered a crosswalk at the intersection of Western Avenue and Petaluma Boulevard South while the signal displayed a green light for vehicles. A truck proceeded through the intersection, resulting in a situation that sparked strong concern in the community. One witness on Facebook claimed the pickup allegedly ‘plowed into’ the protesters.
No injuries were reported, and the involved driver reported the incident to police. The driver is cooperating with the investigation. Investigators are reviewing video footage and witness accounts to determine if any illegal activity occurred.
The Petaluma Police Department emphasized that drivers are legally obligated to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, even with a green light. ‘Driving toward pedestrians, particularly families with children, is dangerous and may violate multiple sections of the California Vehicle Code,’ they said. Pedestrians also have a responsibility to cross the street lawfully and avoid walking against the light, especially outside of crosswalks.
The ‘No Kings’ demonstration was attended by hundreds, with traffic volunteers managing the crowd. At one point, officials asked the crowd to start marching rather than blocking the sidewalk bordering D Street and Walnut Park to maintain order.
