Flagpole Assault at Brewster County Courthouse Protest Leads to Arrest, Injuries
BREWSTER COUNTY, TX — A Saturday afternoon demonstration in Brewster County turned violent, prompting law enforcement intervention and resulting in the arrest of one individual on multiple charges, authorities confirmed.
According to a statement from the Brewster County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were conducting surveillance at the county courthouse in response to a scheduled protest organized by a group identifying themselves as “No Kings.” The demonstration, which drew a modest gathering of participants, was reportedly aimed at challenging what organizers described as government overreach and centralized authority.
At approximately 2:30 p.m., while monitoring the demonstration, deputies observed a male protester strike a passing vehicle with a flagpole. The impact of the blow cracked the windshield of the vehicle and injured a passenger seated inside. Witnesses reported a sudden escalation in the demonstrator’s behavior just prior to the incident.
Deputies on site quickly intervened and detained the suspect without further incident. The individual was identified as Craig Andrew Ryan Campbell, a 32-year-old resident of Austin, Texas. Authorities confirmed that Campbell was carrying a large flag affixed to a wooden pole when he allegedly assaulted the vehicle.
The injured passenger sustained what officials described as a non-life-threatening injury. Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene to evaluate the victim, who was reportedly struck in the shoulder area by the flagpole. The identity and condition of the victim have not been released at this time.
Campbell was transported to the Brewster County Jail, where he was formally booked on charges of Assault Causing Bodily Injury and Criminal Mischief, both of which are misdemeanors under Texas law. Additional charges could be considered pending further investigation and statements from witnesses.
Authorities stated that surveillance and security protocols had been heightened due to concerns about possible confrontations at the courthouse during the politically charged event. While most demonstrators remained peaceful, law enforcement underscored the importance of maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of both protest participants and bystanders.
“This incident underscores the importance of exercising First Amendment rights in a manner that does not endanger others,” the Brewster County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement released late Saturday. “We will continue to support lawful expression while taking swift action against any acts of violence or property destruction.”
As of Sunday morning, Campbell remained in custody, and his bond amount had not yet been disclosed. Investigators are continuing to review footage from the scene and are encouraging anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.
The “No Kings” group has not issued a public comment regarding Campbell’s arrest, and it remains unclear whether he had any formal affiliation with the organizers of the event.
Authorities have not indicated whether the protest will lead to further security reviews or legal responses but emphasized that similar future events will be closely monitored.
