Inauguration: Video captures moment anti-Donald Trump protest violence erupts in Washington DC
Water guns used against demonstrators holding anarchist flags
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Video captured the moment anti-inauguration protesters smashed windows and clashed with police on the streets of Washington DC as violence erupted hours before Donald Trump became the 45th president of the United States.
Water guns were used on protesters dressed all in black - apparently part of the “black bloc” anarchists' group - who carried flags, banners and small weapons.
One protester carrying a flag with the anarchist symbol can be seen rolling a dustbin onto the street with three companions, before running away.
A group holding a banner with the words ‘My Mind My Body My Choice’ can be seen walking in the background.
Several characters smash the windows of a McDonald’s with the poles of flags, before also fleeing the scene.
Follow all the updates on our inauguration live blog here.
A placard with depiction of a Klu Klux Klan member on it and the words ‘No Hate No Place’ on it lies beneath McDonald’s windows, referencing the KKK's endorsement and celebration of the new President.
Police are then seen directing small water cannons at the protesters, before chasing a crowd that vastly outnumbers law enforcement officers at the scene.
There appear to be well over a hundred protesters in the crowd, the majority of them dressed in black, and an even greater number covering their faces to hide their identity.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments