A peaceful “No Kings” protest in downtown Nashville turned tense when a 19-year-old counter-protester allegedly spat on demonstrators, brandished a pistol, and was quickly detained by law enforcement.
At a Glance
- A 19-year-old man confronted peaceful “No Kings” protesters in Nashville on June 14
- He allegedly spat at demonstrators and displayed a SIG Sauer 9mm pistol
- The Department of Justice charged him with a federal firearms violation
- The teen, Elijah Millar of Murfreesboro, reportedly had ties to extremist ideology
- The incident highlights rising tensions at anti-Trump rallies nationwide
Confrontation Erupts on Nashville Streets
During the “No Kings” Day of Defiance rally near Bicentennial Mall, Elijah Millar, wearing a black mask, allegedly spat on protesters and brandished a loaded 9mm handgun. According to Newsweek, police swiftly arrested Millar at the scene after he reportedly shouted at demonstrators and drew the weapon.
Federal Charges and Extremist Links
The Department of Justice charged Millar with illegally carrying and brandishing a firearm during a public demonstration. As USA Today reports, Millar was already known to the FBI for online posts expressing admiration for neo-Nazi ideology. Court filings suggest authorities are probing whether Millar acted alone or had ties to extremist groups.
Broader Context of Rising Tensions
The Nashville event was part of the nationwide “No Kings” protests on June 14, which drew crowds in more than 2,100 cities opposing authoritarianism and perceived threats to U.S. democracy, according to CNN. While most protests remained peaceful, similar flashpoints occurred in Minneapolis and Salt Lake City.
What Comes Next?
Millar remains in federal custody as the investigation continues. Both the Nashville Police Department and FBI are monitoring for potential links to organized extremist groups. This incident adds urgency to growing concerns over politically charged violence in an already polarized climate.
