Crews Start Tearing Down Seattle”CHOP” Zone Barriers

Yesterday, officials started the removal of barriers in the Seattle Capitol Hill Organized Protest zone. Demonstrators have occupied six entire blocks in the city, including an abandoned police precinct, following the death of George Floyd. The mayor and several other city leaders allowed them to remain in the area for over two weeks since the protests were largely peaceful. That was until two shootings took place in one weekend and a 19-year-old man was killed. Occupants were politely asked to disperse but still they refused. Earlier this week, the CHOP zone experienced its fourth shooting. A 16-year-old boy was killed and a 14-year-old boy hospitalized. Now, the city is taking action and forcefully removing the barriers. Seattle officers stood guard as heavy machinery crews started at 10th and East Pine Street. As they worked, protesters tried to construct new makeshift barriers. Meanwhile, a petition has been signed by tens of thousands of residents demanding the recall of Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan for her complicity in the matter.