Overview

• The confrontation erupted on July 12 when a man exited his vehicle outside Turning Point USA’s Student Action Summit in Tampa, shouted at participants and shoved an attendee in the street.
• Tampa Police officers pursued the suspect when he attempted to flee, tackled him to the ground and took him into custody at the scene.
• Authorities have identified the suspect as Trevor Smith and lodged formal charges of battery, resisting arrest and driving under the influence against him.
• Smith remains detained in the Hillsborough County jail as prosecutors prepare to advance legal proceedings under Florida law.
• The incident underscores escalating political tensions at high-profile campus gatherings and highlights the growing role of social media footage in driving public scrutiny.