Fights, Arrests During Pro-Trump Rally In Huntington Beach

HUNTINGTON BEACH (CBLA.com) — Several people were arrested after fights broke out during in a Huntington Beach "Make America Great Again" march and rally in support of President Donald Trump Saturday.

Sometime after 12:30 p.m. confrontations and scuffles occurred between pro-Trump and anti-Trump protesters. Three people were arrested on suspicion of illegal use of pepper spray, Capt. Kevin Pearsall of the California State Parks Police told the Associated Press. No serious injuries were reported.

The rally billed itself as supporting not only President Trump, but veterans, law enforcement and first responders.

The march was one of dozens planned across the country. A smaller event was scheduled in Hollywood, with participants expected to march to Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Organizers predicted about 3,000 participants taking part in the march along Pacific Coast Highway at Bolsa Chica State Beach. The event was originally planned at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa, but officials there decided to close down for the weekend, fearing a potential clash between participants and anti-Trump protesters.

Such clashes have marred past Trump rallies, including one last year at the Pacific Amphitheatre that resulted in more than a dozen arrests.

Police were out in force during the Saturday rally. According to organizers of the Make America Great Again march, the event is designed to show "we love our country and we want to show gratitude to the men and women who put their own lives on the live every day."

Organizers were collecting donations during the event to benefit homeless veterans.

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