The Petaluma Police Department is investigating an altercation that occurred during the ‘No Kings’ demonstration on Saturday in Petaluma. According to the police, a group of protesters entered a crosswalk at the intersection of Western Avenue and Petaluma Boulevard South while the traffic signal displayed a green light for vehicles. A pickup truck proceeded through the intersection, resulting in a potentially dangerous situation that understandably caused concern among onlookers.
The police department reported that no injuries were sustained during the incident, and the driver of the pickup truck cooperated with authorities, reporting the event to the police. Investigators are currently reviewing video footage and witness accounts to determine if any illegal activity occurred.
The ‘No Kings’ event drew hundreds of participants and was largely peaceful throughout the day, according to the police. The department emphasized that drivers have a legal obligation to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, even when they have a green light. “Driving toward pedestrians, particularly families with children, is dangerous and may violate multiple sections of the California Vehicle Code,” the Petaluma Police Department stated.
The police also reminded pedestrians of their responsibility to cross streets lawfully and avoid entering intersections against traffic signals, especially outside designated crosswalks. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.