– Man charged in fatal incident involving Jewish protester in California
– Trial set for individual accused in death of Jewish demonstrator in California.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : A man is facing charges of manslaughter in connection with the death of a Jewish protester following clashes between two opposing groups during demonstrations over the Israel-Hamas conflict last year. Loay Alnaji allegedly struck 69-year-old Paul Kessler with a megaphone, causing him to fall and hit his head on the pavement in Thousand Oaks, California. Kessler, who was participating in a pro-Israel rally, later succumbed to his injuries. The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office revealed that medical examiners determined Kessler’s cause of death to be blunt force trauma from the blow and subsequent fall.
Alnaji has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and battery, with the investigation being complicated by conflicting statements from witnesses on both sides of the demonstration. Despite pleading not guilty, Alnaji will face trial following a judge’s ruling. The incident occurred amid a wave of protests across the United States in the aftermath of Hamas’ attacks on Israel, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
During a preliminary hearing, prosecutors presented evidence linking Alnaji to the alleged assault, including DNA analysis of blood found on the megaphone matching Kessler’s. Video and audio recordings from Kessler’s phone captured the moments leading up to the fatal fall. While there were reports of antisemitic hate speech at the rally, there is no evidence to suggest that Alnaji was involved in such actions.
Alnaji’s attorney, Ron Bamieh, maintained that Kessler had confronted multiple protesters, including his client, before the tragic incident unfolded. Bamieh highlighted that Alnaji cooperated with law enforcement, attempted to assist Kessler after he fell, and promptly called emergency services upon realizing the severity of the situation. Following his arrest, Alnaji was placed on administrative leave from his position at Moorpark College within the Ventura County Community College District.
The dueling rallies, organized by groups advocating for Palestine and Israel respectively, saw tensions escalate leading to the fatal altercation. Authorities estimated between 75 and 100 individuals were present at the demonstrations. Sheriff Jim Fryhoff confirmed receiving reports of an assault at the intersection where Kessler was found injured. Conflicting witness testimonies complicated the investigation, with both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrators providing varying accounts of the altercation.
The tragic outcome of the clash resulted in Kessler’s hospitalization and subsequent passing due to severe head injuries. An autopsy revealed fractures and swelling in his skull, consistent with a fall. Described as a devoted family man with decades of experience in medical sales and education, Kessler’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the community.
Alnaji, currently out on bail, is scheduled for arraignment in June, facing a potential maximum sentence of four years in prison if convicted. The legal proceedings will shed further light on the events that transpired during the dual protests and the circumstances surrounding Kessler’s tragic demise. CNN’s Cindy Von Quednow contributed to the detailed report..
– Man charged death Jewish protester California trial
– Man charged death Jewish protester California face trial.
