In a shocking incident captured on video, a large mob consisting of approximately 40 teenagers brutally assaulted three off-duty Marines who had simply requested them to cease lighting fireworks at a California beach. This disturbing footage quickly went viral, revealing the Marines, who were enjoying their well-deserved time off during the Memorial Day weekend, being relentlessly pursued by the aggressive mob as they walked towards San Clemente Pier Bowl late on Friday.
Hunter Antonino, one of the Marines who fell victim to the attack, shared his account with KCAL News, stating, “We informed them that we were Marines in the hopes that they would back off, but unfortunately, they persisted with their violent behavior.” The tension escalated as the Marines ascended a set of steps, with some members of the pursuing group shouting derogatory remarks, commanding them to “get the f–k outta here.” Suddenly, one of the assailants sprinted forward from behind and delivered a sucker-punch to the Marine at the rear of the group.
In a momentary pause, the Marine dropped whatever he was holding and fearlessly retaliated, charging at his attacker and swiftly knocking him down. The bravery and determination exhibited by the Marine in the face of this senseless violence were truly commendable. However, this distressing incident highlights the alarming behavior and disregard for authority demonstrated by the mob of teenagers.
Such acts of aggression towards those who have dedicated their lives to serving their country are deeply disheartening. It is essential that we address the underlying causes of such incidents and foster a culture of respect, appreciation, and understanding for our military personnel. We must stand united against such acts of violence and ensure the safety and well-being of those who selflessly protect us.
Instantly, the mob descends upon him, unleashing a barrage of punches while hurling vile insults. Their voices merge into a cacophony of cries, repeatedly urging each other to “get that f—er! Get that f—er! F–k that f—er up!”
Overwhelmed by the sheer force of the attack, the targeted Marine and one of his companions find themselves huddled in a defensive fetal position on the ground. Desperately, they shield their heads with their hands and arms as the mob continues its relentless assault, delivering kicks, punches, and stomps without mercy.
With a brazen display of cruelty, one member of the group confronts the Marines, provocatively asking, “What’s good, n–ger?” Others taunt them with derogatory slurs, branding them as “p—ies.” To add insult to injury, the instigator of the initial sucker punch callously pours a drink over one of the helpless victims.
The scene is a distressing testament to the brutality and lack of empathy exhibited by the mob. It underscores the urgent need to address the root causes of such senseless acts of violence and cultivate a society built on respect, compassion, and accountability. We must ensure the safety and well-being of those who serve in the military, protecting their unwavering dedication and sacrifice from such unwarranted aggression.
The horrifying incident, captured in a video lasting nearly a minute, depicts the assault coming to an abrupt halt when a courageous man and woman intervene, shouting at the assailants to cease their violent actions.
It should be noted that at least one additional Marine was targeted in the attack, although their presence was not visible within the recorded footage.
Initially, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department estimated the involvement of 10 to 30 teenagers and young adults. However, footage captured from a distance suggested a significantly larger number, with an apparent swarm of approximately 40 individuals converging upon the men at the beach.
In response to this heinous act, the department has expressed its unwavering commitment to conducting a thorough investigation. They have pledged to pursue the identification and prosecution of all individuals involved, ensuring that they face the full extent of the law for their actions.
“This is considered an assault with a deadly weapon because of the amount of suspects,” Sgt. Frank Gonzalez also told KCAL News.
Despite the evident brutality of the assault, all of the victims, confirmed to be Marines by the sheriff’s department, declined medical treatment.
Nevertheless, Antonino expressed his concern to KCAL, revealing that he apprehends having sustained a concussion due to the forceful “stomping” he endured.
“My face still has, like, blood all over it,” he said. “It wasn’t cool at all.”
He asserted that he and his companions, who were enjoying their time off from Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, merely approached the teenagers to request they cease lighting fireworks, prompted by a piece of debris striking him in the face.
“They were being belligerent, they were being obnoxious and annoying other people, so I went up to them and told them to stop,” he said.
Gonzalez, the sergeant from the sheriff’s department, affirmed that officers are committed to conducting a thorough investigation, regardless of whether or not the servicemen decide to pursue charges.
San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate timing of the attack, emphasizing the particularly tragic nature of it occurring during the Memorial Day weekend.
“Marines are always welcome here, always going to be celebrated, always taken care of,” he said.
