A Disturbing Incident of Homophobic Assault Comes to Light: Involvement of CSUB Athletics Volunteer Sparks Outrage
A shocking video capturing a homophobic assault has gone viral, sparking outrage across the nation. The incident occurred in a Walmart parking lot in Casper, Wyoming, where a man was seen punching another person in a car after exchanging vulgar words. The victim, Steven Rangel, was inside the vehicle while his boyfriend, Lourd Asprec, recorded the attack.
Rangel and Asprec explained that they had gone to Walmart to grab snacks when they encountered three men who began hurling homophobic slurs at them inside the store and continued to do so as they left. The situation escalated quickly, leading to the assault captured in the video.
The video gained significant attention on social media, prompting a flood of comments and concerns. As people delved deeper into the incident, it was discovered that the man seen throwing the punch had alleged ties to Bakersfield, California, and a close connection to the California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB).
Contrary to rumors suggesting that the man was an employee at the university, CSUB representatives clarified that he had served as an unpaid advisor for the university’s baseball program in the past spring. In response to the video, CSUB addressed the issue through their official social media platforms.
However, the identity of the assailant has been concealed as no charges have been filed or arrests made by the Casper Police Department. Despite this, the university decided to terminate his volunteer efforts in light of the incident.
Rangel and Asprec are now seeking justice and urging the Casper Police Department to apprehend the aggressor. They hope that their experience will shed light on the ongoing issue of homophobic attacks and raise awareness of the daily struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
The athletic director of CSUB, Kyle Conder, released a statement to distance the university from the actions depicted in the video. Conder emphasized that the incident was not a reflection of CSUB Athletics, nor did it represent his personal character or values. He affirmed that the university would move forward in unity.
The couple involved in the assault expressed their disbelief at the ordeal they endured. Asprec described being shocked and appalled by the incident, as well as concerned for Rangel’s wellbeing due to his bleeding nose.
Dr. Jeremiah Sataraka, the co-chair of the LGBTQ Affinity group at CSUB, expressed deep concern about the affiliation of the assailant with the university. He highlighted the heightened vulnerability of LGBTQ+ individuals in the current volatile climate and emphasized the importance of addressing such distressing incidents.
Apart from reporting the assault, it is crucial to provide a comprehensive perspective on the matter by exploring various viewpoints. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and emphasizes the need for continued efforts to combat discrimination and promote inclusivity.
It is crucial for society to stand united against acts of hatred and violence, reaffirming the rights of every individual to live free from discrimination.
