– By Jim Emerson
LAFAYETTE, CA — A man was arrested following a chemical attack inside a business in downtown
Lafayette on May 15. Isaiah J. Harris, 26, of San Leandro, remains in custody at the West County
Detention Facility in lieu of $370,000 bond.
The attack resulting in multiple injuries happened on the 900 block of Village Center during the middle
of the morning. The incident was described as a high-volume chemical assault. It reportedly involved
the use of tear gas.
Lafayette police and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. The Contra
Costa County Fire Protection District (Con Fire) also responded to evaluate the chemical agent. Contra Costa
Fire cleared the air inside the building, which was heavily contaminated.
Multiple ambulance crews were dispatched to the scene. Victims suffered acute respiratory distress
and skin irritation. Three victims were transported to a hospital for medical treatment. Paramedics also
provided first aid treatment at the scene for several other persons with less severe injuries.
The mass assault occurred in a busy commercial corridor with restaurants, retail stores, and other
businesses. Customers and employees were present when tear gas was released from a canister.
Police and sheriff’s deputies cordoned off the area, and Lafayette police placed Harris under arrest at
10:38 a.m.
Harris was booked for:
· Assault with a deadly weapon likely to produce great bodily injury – 245(A)
· Use of tear gas as a weapon (other than self-defense) – 22810(G)
