The Seattle Police Department, along with the fire and transportation departments, have been monitoring demonstrations Saturday, according to a statement from police.
“Following several hours of peaceful demonstration, the crowd became violent and aggressive and began to throw bottles at officers,” the statement read. “Members of the crowd also threw fireworks towards people attending the rally.”
Protesters and officers were injured as a result of the confrontation, police said. Officers issued a dispersal order to the crowd, which was ignored.
“Protesters have blocked all southbound lanes of Interstate 5 at Seneca Street,” police said. “The crowd has set several patrol cars on fire in the downtown core near Westlake Center.”
Police have arrested several people.
“The Department urges community members to avoid the area if possible,” police said.
