Columbia University Protest Turns Violent

On Wednesday evening, a pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University's Butler Library escalated into a violent clash between demonstrators and authorities, resulting in dozens of arrests and injuries.

The Incident

A group of protesters stormed the library, occupying a room and vandalizing property. Videos show protesters pushing past public safety officers and hanging banners.

<img src="https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/05/07/d97e01a9-4871-461b-aaad-e7372c9c5e8c/thumbnail/620x349/86558bb58356ca7f9ada1b693c2c5f57/bauman-columbia-library-wcbsdtkj-hi-res-still.jpg?v=e61856d8e666e7ed5709adc37bb2d465#" alt="Protesters inside Columbia's library, including one individual with a megaphone." width="620" height="349">

After the protesters refused to identify themselves and disperse, Columbia University called in the NYPD. Approximately 76 protesters were subsequently arrested. Two public safety officers sustained injuries during a “crowd surge”.

<img src="https://assets3.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/05/08/5890d7db-7644-480e-a5ff-f5a0edd43184/thumbnail/620x349/358f43e70e63bf78a404a7f5583be10f/new-bauman-8p-vo-columb-wcbsdto5-hi-res-still.jpg?v=e61856d8e666e7ed5709adc37bb2d465#" alt="NYPD officers clash with a large crowd of protesters." width="620" height="349">

Aftermath and Statements

Mayor Eric Adams issued a statement emphasizing the city's support for peaceful protest but zero tolerance for lawlessness. Governor Kathy Hochul expressed gratitude to public safety officials for ensuring student safety. Columbia University temporarily restricted campus access.

Context

The protest occurred during a pre-final exams reading week, causing significant disruption to student life. The incident follows previous pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia, which led to federal scrutiny and disciplinary actions against some students. A recent university guideline requires protestors wearing masks to show identification.