Are_grits_groceries (1000+ posts) Thu Aug-06-09 07:42 PM
Original message
Breaking: Violence at Tampa health care forum
Edited on Thu Aug-06-09 07:45 PM by Are_grits_groceries
Tampa, Florida - Angry protesters and strong supporters are clashing inside and all around a health care reform town hall meeting in Downtown Tampa. The meeting which was scheduled to begin at 6:00 at the Children's Board of Hillsborough County drew hundreds of people who quickly began to overwhelm staff and event organizers at the front entrance.
As the building filled to capacity, angry protesters stuck outside began to scream, yell, and chant. At one point, those trying to get inside began banging on windows as Tampa Police officers quickly spread out guarding all entrances.
10 Connects photojournalist Kevin Carlson, currently inside the meeting reports at least one fist fight breaking out inside. Some other journalists remain outside.
Democratic Congresswoman Kathy Castor and State Representative Betty Reed were hosting the event.
UPDATE 7:13pm
Police on bullhorns are trying to break-up the crowd outside the building on 1002 E. Palm Ave.
Many in the crowd are refusing to go.
UPDATE 7:26pm
The health care forum has ended before it started. People inside are being told to go home.
Originally Posted by BadCat
