Public Help Needed for Investigation into Conflicting Witness Accounts of Jewish Man’s Death at Israel-Hamas Protest
Authorities in Southern California are seeking assistance from the public in piecing together conflicting accounts of a 69-year-old Jewish man’s tragic death during an Israel-Hamas war protest in Thousand Oaks on Sunday. Paul Kessler sustained a fatal head injury and authorities are treating his death as a homicide, with the potential for a hate crime investigation.
Kessler fell during a confrontation with a pro-Palestinian protester, but law enforcement is still working to determine the exact cause of his fall. Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff urged individuals to come forward with video, photos, or any accounts of the incident, emphasizing the need for additional evidence to unravel the events leading up to Kessler’s death.
The tragic occurrence has sent shockwaves through the local community. Kessler was actively supporting Israel at the demonstrations, part of many protests that have emerged across the US either backing Israel or opposing its retaliation for Hamas attacks. Police have detained a 50-year-old individual, although no arrests have been made. A deeper examination of the incident is ongoing, with the medical examiner’s office working to clarify the circumstances surrounding Kessler’s passing.
Community leaders and members have mourned the loss and voiced condemnation of violent actions. Rabbi Moshe Bryski stated that the Jewish community, both locally and globally, is rallying in support of Kessler’s family. Multiple vigils are planned to commemorate and honor the life of Paul Kessler, representing a meaningful demonstration of unity during these challenging times. The incident has also prompted an increase in police presence around both Jewish and Muslim gathering places, showing a commitment to ensuring the safety of these communities.
At this critical juncture, public participation is pivotal in uncovering the truth behind Kessler’s fatal injury. The Jewish and Muslim community leaders are urging people to remain patient and refrain from jumping to conclusions while law enforcement thoroughly investigates this tragedy. Through collaboration and shared responsibility, overcoming the caustic impact of these events is possible, echoing a powerful message of unity and progress.
The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations is also asking anyone with footage of the incident involving Kessler to provide it to investigators as an essential contribution to the ongoing inquiry.
