US: Teenager arrested over violent attack at Detroit pride event

Police have made an arrest in connection with a brutal assault at a pride parade in Detroit.

20-year-old Christin Howard was verbally abused at the parade last weekend, before being attacked by a group of five-to-eight men.

He was left with cuts on his face, a bruised and bloody eye, and a broken finger.

A video taken on a mobile phone showed him struggling whilst being attacked by the men.

Police confirmed to WXYZ that they have arrested a 16 year old in connection with the attack, though the other suspects remain at large.

Howard, a hairdresser, said that the broken finger he sustained in the attack left him unable to work.

He said he thought he was going to die during the attack, adding: “Will I go back to pride? I’m kind of iffy about it right now, because I don’t want that incident to happen again, what if the same guys are there?”

David Wait, the chair of Motor City Pride said: “I was sorrowful and troubled when I heard of Mr. Howard’s attack. Motor City Pride’s number one goal is to provide a safe space for our communities.

“Our team works closely with Tricon Security to address issues that arise at the festival. When we noticed record attendance on Saturday, we took steps to increase security. We are already taking steps to work with the Detroit Police Department to review and revise our safety and security plans for next year.

“We also appreciate the swift efforts of the Detroit Police Department to investigate the attack.”

• Nov 29 2023

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