Mayor Jimmy Matta Comments on the Physical and Verbal Assault Against Him on July 21, 2018
NEWS RELEASE
Burien, WA, July 23, 2018—Today at 2 p.m., City of Burien Mayor Jimmy Matta will hold a press conference regarding the verbal and physical assault that occurred against him this weekend.
On Saturday, July 21, Burien Mayor Jimmy Matta was physically and verbally assaulted while attending the Olde Burien Block Party in downtown Burien. Mayor Matta was grabbed by the neck from behind and pushed to the ground by an older white man. The suspect is alleged to have been upset with Ordinance 651, which states City and Police personnel will not inquire or collect information about a person’s immigration status or religion. The suspect also has been alleged to have taken issue of Mayor Matta’s Latin heritage. Matta is the first Latino Mayor in the City of Burien’s 25-year history.
Immediately following the incident, Mayor Matta reported the assault to Burien police officers who were present at the event. Burien Police have initiated an assault/hate crime investigation. The investigation is ongoing. Chief Ted Boe will provide a briefing regarding the status of the investigation including efforts to identify the suspect during this press conference.
About the City of Burien
The City of Burien and the Burien Police Department remain committed to ensuring our policies and practices comply with the “immigration status ordinance,” Ordinance 651, which states City and Police personnel will not inquire or collect information about a person’s immigration status or religion.
The City of Burien is a vibrant and creative community, where the residents embrace diversity, celebrate arts and culture, promote vitality, and treasure the environment.