In a concerning turn of events, seven individuals, including three students, were arrested at Portland State University (PSU) on Thursday night. The situation escalated to the point where Chief of Campus Police, Willie Halliburton, had to be rushed to the hospital due to a medical emergency stemming from a physical altercation with some of the protesters.

According to a spokesperson for the college, PSU's campus police initially requested the individuals to leave the premises, but when they failed to comply, Portland Police officers were called in for assistance in making the arrests.

PSU President Ann Cudd expressed her dismay over the incident, describing a physical fight or scuffle between the police and protesters that resulted in Chief Halliburton's medical emergency. She emphasized the need for a safer campus atmosphere, stating, "This cannot continue; it is not a campus atmosphere that can sustain any of us at Portland State."

Amidst the chaos, Cudd also addressed PSU's ties to Boeing, stating that the university has been transparent about their lack of direct investments and their funding for scholarships supporting minority STEM students. Earlier this month, PSU announced a temporary pause on all donations from Boeing, which assist in funding scholarships and emergency funds for students.

While the focus of the protest may have been overshadowed by the events that unfolded, a group of Palestinian student demonstrators spoke out, expressing their desire to draw attention back to the situation in Gaza. They demanded that PSU cut all ties with Boeing and called for solidarity from the university community.

In response to the incident, PSU assured that the Boeing donation pause remains in effect and no further decisions have been made. President Cudd continues to engage in discussions with students holding varying perspectives on the issue, including members of the Associated Students of Portland State University.

As the campus recovers from this troubling incident, it is hoped that dialogue and understanding can be fostered, promoting a peaceful and inclusive environment at PSU.