Authorities in Smith County, Texas, have identified Ciro Tomlian, 38, as the suspect charged in an altercation at the University of Texas at Tyler on Tuesday. Campus police arrested Tomlian following a confrontation at a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) event, where video shows him swinging a cane at attendees and tearing down an American flag.
Two charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and one charge of assault causing bodily injury have been filed against Tomlian, according to Smith County booking records. University officials confirmed that three people were assaulted during the incident, though no injuries were reported in initial assessments. Tomlian was not enrolled as a student at the time of the attack, UT Tyler stated.
Immediate Response and Arrest
Video footage from the event shows Tomlian, dressed in a black cape and round-brimmed hat, pulling an American flag from a TPUSA display and throwing it to the ground. He then raised a cane toward attendees, shouting phrases including "Back the f— off you fascist pieces of s—" and "Back up!" before swinging the cane. Campus police intervened and arrested Tomlian, who was later heard saying, "Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences."
During the arrest, Tomlian told officers, "I was backed into a corner," and apologized as he was led away. Police did not immediately comment on his statements. The suspect was taken to the Smith County Jail for processing.
Event Context and Organizational Response
The incident occurred during a TPUSA event titled "Pick Up the Mic", a platform for conservative speakers and discussions. The organization, founded by the late Charlie Kirk, has faced multiple disruptions at college campuses since Kirk’s assassination in September 2024. TPUSA described the attendees as a field representative and two students, all of whom were involved in the altercation.
UT Tyler President Dr. Julie V. Philley issued a statement acknowledging the incident and confirming that campus police responded and made an arrest. The university did not provide further details on the investigation but noted that no students were enrolled in the event’s organizing group at the time.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Tensions
The attack follows a pattern of disruptions at TPUSA events, which the organization attributes to opposition from progressive groups. TPUSA has not released additional statements regarding the incident. The organization has previously highlighted incidents such as a Colorado TPUSA chapter enrollment stagnation after a confrontation involving an elderly supporter.
Law enforcement agencies have not commented on potential motives beyond the immediate altercation. The case remains under investigation, with no further updates provided as of publication.