On Friday, May 11th, Berkeley Critical Mass was stopped by a car that destroyed several bicycles. The cyclists had been through much of Berkeley, including a sojourn to Indian Rock, and were heading back down The Alameda. The riders entered an intersection on a green light, and several were struck by a mini-van. Three bicycles were crushed and trapped under the car, and at least two bicyclists sustained injuries. They and dozens of others had been participating in a monthly bicycle ride around Berkeley, promoting bicycling and the reduction of automobile and oil dependency. Police sided with the driver, denying the rights of the demonstrators.

Bicyclists reportedly managed to stop the attack when one was able to reach into the van’s window and turn off the vehicle. Cyclists were terrified that the driver would continue and crush bicyclists, particularly when they were trapped between their bicycles and the ground. Two riders reported that the motorist brandished a knife in a threatening manner. The motorist reportedly honked and shouted as he drove forward. As the crowd of Critical Mass riders stood in the street, cars revved their engines and tried to get around the scene.

The officers reportedly did not protect the rights of the bicyclists despite video evidence that showed the incident. They failed to press charges on behalf of the injured victims; to execute a citizen’s arrest; or to search for and impound the motorist’s knife, as they claimed he had a right to protect his car. Police claimed that bicyclists were pushing their bicycles under the vehicle. Riders say that they believe that this incident demonstrates the need for critical mass demonstrations.

Video and Report | "Berkeley Critical Mass Out of Line" (an attack on videographer) | Berkeley Critical Mass | Bicycle Civil Liberties Union | Indian Rock Park