Driver Arrested After SUV Hits Protester at ‘No Kings’ Rally

[Thiệu Ngô]

A 21-year-old man was arrested Saturday after police say he intentionally drove his SUV through a crowd of protesters in Culpeper, Virginia, striking at least one person.

By Adeola Adeosun

The Culpeper Police Department (CPD) arrested Joseph R. Checklick Jr. of Culpeper after officers witnessed him drive recklessly through a group of "No Kings" rallygoers near 801 James Madison Highway.

Why It Matters

Organizers from the 50501 Movement, the name of which references "50 states, 50 protests, one movement," planned demonstrations in over 1,500 locations nationwide under the "No Kings" banner.

The protests are aimed at what participants describe as "corruption" and "authoritarian" tendencies President Donald Trump's administration, including decisions on immigration and uses of federal force in cities like Los Angeles.

Trump says donor sent $130 million to pay troops

Trump on Thursday said a wealthy private donor sent a check to the U.S. government for $130 million to cover any shortfall for military salaries as Congress remains at odds to end the government shutdown.

Trump declined to name the private donor, but he called the person “a friend of mine.”

“Today he sent us a check for $130 million,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “That’s what I call a patriot.”

The president earlier this month said there was a donor who wanted to contribute to help pay troops.

“I actually have a man who is a very wealthy person, he said, ‘If there is any money necessary, shortfall for the paying of the troops, I will pay it,’” Trump said Oct. 14 during a meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei at the White House.

Military salaries are paid through tax dollars, not private donations.

On Thursday, Trump took questions from reporters in the White House after signing a resolution blocking California's proposed ban on the sale of new gas-powered cars from 2035. Asked by a reporter for his thoughts on the upcoming "No Kings" protests, Trump replied: "I don't feel like a king. I have to go through hell to get stuff approved.

"A king would say 'I'm not going to get this ... he wouldn't have to call up [House Speaker] Mike Johnson and [Senate Majority Leader John] Thune and say, 'Fellas you've got to pull this off' and after years we get it done. No no, we're not a king, we're not a king at all."

What To Know

CPD says the incident unfolded as the "No Kings in Culpeper" demonstration was concluding in the parking lot of a Walmart on James Madison Highway.

Culpeper Democrats sponsored the local event as part of nationwide protests against the Trump administration's policies. Police said the protest was wrapping up and people were crossing the parking lot when Checklick "intentionally accelerated his vehicle into the dispersing crowd."

Despite the SUV striking one person, officers had not received reports of injuries as of late Saturday afternoon, though the investigation remains ongoing.

Checklick appeared before a magistrate following his arrest and was denied bond, according to local reports. The incident has prompted law enforcement to seek additional witnesses and documentation of the event to build a comprehensive case.

What People Are Saying

Culpeper Democrats via Facebook on Saturday: "We thank the Culpeper Police Department for their quick response and for keeping our protest safe."

Culpeper Police Department in a statement: "CPD asked anyone who witnessed what happened, was involved in the incident, or may have documented it, to contact Det. Payne at 540-829-5530 or email tips@culpeperva.gov. People who want to remain anonymous can submit tips by calling Culpeper Crime Solvers at 540-727-0300 or submitting an online tip at culpeperpd.org."

What Happens Next

Checklick remains in custody without bond while prosecutors determine whether to file additional charges beyond reckless driving.