Chaos in SLC Protest: Demonstrator Hit by Car Speaks on Shocking Experience

Salt Lake City authorities and event organizers have confirmed that a demonstrator was hit by a vehicle during a large protest on Saturday, February 8.

According to police, the protester—identified as Anahi Padilla-Oliver—was struck near 350 South State Street. No arrests have been made, and the incident remains under investigation.

Speaking with reporters the day after the event, Padilla-Oliver recounted what happened. She said she noticed other demonstrators moving aside as a vehicle approached. The driver initially slowed down and stopped, but she remained in place, holding her sign firmly.

Moments later, the vehicle reportedly accelerated toward her, making contact and pushing her forward before slowing just enough for her to step away with the help of another protester.

Padilla-Oliver believes the driver was fully aware of her presence but continued forward before fleeing the scene.

Salt Lake City police stated that officers later spoke with both the driver and passenger of the vehicle. Brent Weisberg, a spokesperson for the department, suggested that the driver may have been overwhelmed when protesters surrounded the car and might have been uncertain about how to react.

“There’s preliminary information indicating that the driver may have panicked in the situation,” Weisberg said. “It appears that some demonstrators may have made contact with the vehicle as well.”

Emilee Dekle, representing Utah March—the organization behind the protest—said fellow demonstrators provided immediate assistance to Padilla-Oliver before medical personnel arrived.

“We’ve been in close contact with her, and we’re relieved that her injuries were minor,” Dekle said. “She’s expected to make a full and speedy recovery.”

Organizers also confirmed that Padilla-Oliver was scheduled for further medical evaluation on Sunday.

Saturday’s demonstration, which began at the Utah State Capitol and continued to Washington Square Park, saw an estimated 1,100 participants.

“We were amazed by the turnout,” Dekle added. “The energy and support have given us even more determination to push forward.”

Author
Recent Posts

keelee-mccain

Keelee McCain is a junior at Weber High School. This is her second year on staff, this year as Assistant to the Chief. She does have a life (probably) but she can't think of anything to write in here, so she's probably just going to ramble now. She has an orange cat who she likes better than any human. If you see her being quiet or not sitting on top of a desk, there is something very wrong. In her free time she enjoys harassing her favorite teachers and sleeping. Her life plans include making it through high school and leaving. Happy lifeing.