Authorities are investigating the assault of a local journalist who was allegedly attacked while trying to cover up an anti-mask event in Michigan.
Brendan Quealy, Record-Eagle education reporter allegedly received a punch in the face Thursday during an anti-mask and anti-COVID-19 vaccine, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported.
“We are interviewing witnesses and a report will be sent to the prosecution probably on Monday or Tuesday,” Sheriff Tom Bensley said of the incident.
The meeting was organized by Citizens Liberating Michigan and hosted at the Silver Lake Recreation Area.
The event came after the local school district decided to implement a mask warrant, and organizers said it was not allowed to register for the event.
Quealy, who estimates that between 80 and 100 people attended the event, was confronted for trying to report on the protest, according to local media.
“No reports, Brendan,” said Heather Cerone, a member of Citizens Liberating Michigan. “It simply came to our notice then. So, do you want to stand in front of him? Because we are privately owned because we have rented it. That would be great. “
Two men approached the reporter, with a man finally pushing Quealy to a wooden fence and punching him in the face with both fists.
“This is an open area, it’s open to everyone,” Grand Traverse County Attorney Noelle Moeggenberg said after the incident. “I could go for a walk with my dog there even if they rented the pavilion and potentially listened to what they said and would have no recourse.”
“It’s my job,” Quealy said. “My job is to chase the news, report it accurately and that was what I was doing.”
This is the second media attack in the area in recent months with a man arrested by Leelanau County Sheriff’s deputies after spitting out a local camera at new outlets and attempting to destroy the microphone, according to the Record- Eagle.
“I know the concern you have,” Bensley added. “Some people are not happy with the news. We have had two incidents in a short time. This is the second. “