Brookhaven Protest Erupts in Violence; Five Arrested After Fireworks, Explosives Thrown at Police
On June 10, 2025, the Brookhaven Police Department responded to an organized protest held in the 3300 block of Buford Highway. The protest, led by the Atlanta branch of the Party for Socialism & Liberation, began peacefully, with organizers and police maintaining open communication throughout the early part of the demonstration.
At approximately 7:30 p.m., officers arrested one male protester after he repeatedly entered the roadway despite being warned several times to remain on the sidewalk. Shortly after, at around 8:45 p.m., officers observed individuals loitering behind closed businesses while wearing clothing to conceal their identities, activity that was not consistent with the main protest group.
Police informed protest organizers that if the behavior continued, a dispersal order would be issued at 9:30 p.m. Organizers acknowledged the warning and confirmed that their demonstration was concluding. They informed officers that the individuals remaining were not affiliated with their group.
At 9:30 p.m., police issued a formal dispersal order and began clearing the area. During this process, a group of individuals responded aggressively, throwing fireworks and explosive devices directly at officers in an attempt to cause harm. Although the crowd initially retreated, several regrouped and launched additional attacks using fireworks, rocks, and other blunt objects aimed at law enforcement personnel.
Despite the escalating violence, officers continued their efforts to disperse the crowd. Ultimately, five individuals were arrested in connection with the assaults and other offenses tied to the violent outburst. In addition, three Brookhaven Police patrol vehicles sustained broken windows, and multiple businesses along Buford Highway reported property damage, including anti-ICE graffiti and vandalism.
Brookhaven Police Chief Brandon Gurley praised the peaceful cooperation with the protest organizers but condemned the actions of those who escalated the situation into violence. Chief Gurley stated, “The Brookhaven Police Department supports the right to peaceful assembly and is committed to protecting public safety. I appreciate the professionalism shown by our officers in maintaining order and their measured response to a rapidly changing situation.”
Authorities confirmed that advanced technology, including surveillance systems and crime analysis tools, is being utilized to identify additional suspects involved in the attacks on officers. Investigators have already received several tips and are actively pursuing leads.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Brookhaven Police Department. Those wishing to remain anonymous may submit tips to CrimeStoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS (8477), with rewards of up to $5,000 available.
Arrested Individuals and Charges
- Diego Juan Domingo (residency unknown): Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement; Disorderly Conduct and Unlawful Assembly
- Balmaro Pineda (Brookhaven, GA): Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement; Unlawful Assembly and Pedestrian in the Roadway
- Elijah Petty (Sandy Springs, GA): Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement; Disorderly Conduct and Unlawful Assembly
- Yair Cabrera (Chamblee, GA): Aggravated Assault Upon a Public Safety Officer; Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement; Inciting to Rioting and Unlawful Assembly
- Rachel Tupler (residency unknown): Transported to local hospital for complaint of injury and released from custody. Charged with Willful Obstruction of Law Enforcement and Unlawful Assembly
