Homeless Activists Attempt Armed Siege on Washington Hotel

A group of homeless activists attempted to forcibly takeover a Washington state hotel this weekend. Approximately 45 people who are part of the group called Oly Housing Now attempted to take the Downtown Olympia Red Lion Hotel around 11 a.m. yesterday. They barged in the front doors “armed with items such as hatchets, batons, knives and had gas masks, helmets and goggles” in what was an apparent coordinated attack. They also made demands that local authorities provide housing for homeless individuals during the pandemic. One hotel worker was assaulted. Other employees and hotel guests took shelter in the basement or their rooms during the event. Authorities have so far apprehended at least a dozen people involved with the incident. While their charges were not made immediately clear, police have obtained search warrants for conspiracy to commit burglary, as well as burglary and trespassing. More arrests may follow. It was also revealed that the activist group had reserved 17 rooms prior to this, which were being used to house other homeless individuals.