In Park City, Utah, an incident unfolded Friday evening at a private party affiliated with the Sundance Film Festival, where a Florida congressman was reportedly assaulted. The altercation took place at the High West Distillery, a well-known location that often serves as a venue for events connected to the festival but not formally organized by it.
Democratic U.S. Representative Maxwell Frost publicly disclosed on social media platform X that he was punched in the face by an individual who asserted that former President Donald Trump intended to deport him. The congressman, recognized as the first member of Generation Z elected to Congress, emphasized that the assailant was heard shouting racist comments while inebriated as he fled the scene.
Following the incident, Frost expressed gratitude towards the venue's security personnel and the Park City Police Department for their prompt response and assistance. The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Christian Joel Young, was taken into police custody and charged with aggravated burglary, assault against an elected official, and general assault, according to official court documents. He was transported to Summit County Jail following his arrest.
Further details from the police affidavit revealed that Young had also grabbed a woman by the shoulder amid the chaos. Authorities noted that he appeared to have gained entry to the event by unlawfully scaling a fence and possessed a Sundance Film Festival pass issued in a name different from his own.
Representatives of the Sundance Film Festival issued a formal statement condemning the assault and highlighting that, although the attack occurred at an event not directly affiliated with the festival, such conduct contradicts their values of maintaining an inclusive and inspiring atmosphere for all attendees.
The festival officials underscored the importance of attendee safety and extended their well-wishes to Congressman Frost for his ongoing recovery. They encouraged anyone with additional insights into the matter to contact local law enforcement.
Summit County Judge Richard Mrazik ruled that Young should be held without bail, citing concerns that he poses a significant threat to others and might attempt to evade legal proceedings if released. Records indicate that Young has a prior conviction for a misdemeanor offense.
In response to the incident, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries conveyed his shock and condemnation on social media, stressing that the individual responsible must face rigorous prosecution. Jeffries further affirmed that hatred and politically motivated violence hold no place in the United States.
Attempts to obtain comments from the Park City Police Department and the talent agency CAA, which hosted the party, were not successful by the time of publication.