‘No Latinos here’ suspect in custody

A male suspect is in custody following a possible hate crime at San Francisco’s Fort Mason on Monday in which he allegedly attacked a woman and told her “No Latinos here,” U.S. Park Police said today.

Park police said they were contacted at 10:47 a.m. Monday with a report of an assault at the Great Meadow in Fort Mason.

The woman, who was caring for two small children, was shoved, grabbed by the neck and told in Spanish “No Latinos here.” A jogger in the area helped the woman and called 911.

Park police located a suspect whose clothing matched the description, but he allegedly became confrontational in the course of the investigation.

He was detained on suspicion of resisting arrest and is currently at San Francisco General Hospital undergoing psychiatric evaluation, park officials said. His identity has been with withheld while the attack remains under investigation.

Park police believe the attack is an isolated incident but are encouraging visitors to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area to stay aware of their surroundings and report any possible threats.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area spokesman Nathan Hale Sargent said the park’s values include inclusion for all visitors:

“We want parks to be the places that bring people together. … All are welcome at our national parks.”

San Francisco Supervisor Mark Farrell, whose district includes Fort Mason, put out a statement condemning the attack:

“Hate, discrimination and violence are not welcome and will never be tolerated in San Francisco. … San Francisco is known across the world as a place that accepts people for who they are regardless of their religious, ethnicity or sexual identity.”

Witnesses to the assault are asked to call the U.S. Park Police tip line at (415) 561-5150.