A man was arrested after investigators say he fired a BB gun into a crowd gathered for the annual World Naked Bike Ride in downtown Los Angeles, injuring two people and prompting an investigation into what led to the attack.
The incident unfolded around 11 a.m. on June 27 near the intersection of Temple Street and North Alameda Street, where participants and spectators had assembled ahead of the ride.
According to investigators, the suspect arrived on a scooter and fired multiple rounds from a BB gun into the crowd, striking two adult men and leaving them with lacerations.
Authorities said the injuries were minor, and both victims were treated at the scene without requiring hospitalization.
Police identified the suspect as Edward Sherpa, who allegedly fled the area immediately after the incident.
Officers later located and detained him near a federal building in downtown Los Angeles.
He was taken into custody without incident. Authorities say he is expected to face a charge of assault with a deadly weapon, with additional charges still under review, according to KABC.
Investigators have not confirmed whether the two injured men were participating in the ride or were bystanders near the gathering when the attack occurred.
Officials also have not released a motive, and detectives are continuing to review surveillance footage, witness statements, and video recorded by attendees and passersby.
The World Naked Bike Ride is an annual event held in cities around the world, where participants ride bicycles through public streets while nude or partially clothed, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Organizers describe the event as a demonstration promoting cycling, body positivity, and environmental awareness, as well as opposition to fossil fuel dependence.
The Los Angeles edition has taken place for nearly two decades and typically draws hundreds of participants through downtown streets.
The event has long generated public debate due to its public nudity component.
Supporters describe it as a form of protected political expression and a peaceful demonstration, while critics argue it raises concerns about public decency and whether such events are appropriate in densely populated urban areas where families and children may be present.
Following the incident, reactions on social media quickly surfaced, with users condemning the event itself.
Some commentators praised the suspect’s actions, including Trending Politics co-owner Colin Rugg, who wrote on X, “This man is a hero.”
Other users echoed similar sentiments, with one writing, “FREE THIS PATRIOT,” and another writing, “Buy that man a drink!,” reflecting support for the suspect.
Other reactions focused on public policy concerns.
One user argued that authorities should enforce indecent exposure laws and reconsider allowing nude cycling events in public spaces.
Another post criticized the event more aggressively, claiming law enforcement fails to adequately police public nudity at the ride and calling for stronger enforcement of existing laws.
Video captured by bystanders and circulated online shows a large crowd assembling before police responded and detained the suspect.
Investigators are reviewing multiple sources of footage as they work to reconstruct the timeline of events leading up to the incident.
Authorities emphasized that while the injuries were not life-threatening, the incident occurred in a densely populated public area where additional people could have been at risk.
Detectives continue working to determine what led to the confrontation and whether others were involved.
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