Authorities in Texas have named the man who attacked a conservative student group on a university campus. Ciro Stephen Tomlian, a former student unenrolled during the incident, is the suspect. He faces serious criminal charges after allegedly swinging a cane at members of a Turning Point USA tent.
The event took place at the University of Texas at Tyler. A group’s video recording depicts the man in a round-brimmed hat and cape. Prior to the outbreak of violence, an American flag was tossed onto the ground. According to the New York Post, Tomlian grabbed the flag, tossed it over his shoulder, and gave the students the middle finger.
The Arrest and the Charges
Smith County booking records confirm the identity of the attacker. Tomlian now faces two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He also faces a charge of assault causing bodily injury. The New York Post reported that these charges stem from his alleged strikes against the TPUSA students.
Police arrived at the scene quickly. They placed the suspect in handcuffs. As officers led him away, Tomlian made several statements about the event. He told an officer, “freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences.” He also said, “I apologize, officer,” and claimed, “I was backed into a corner.” Despite these words, he remains in custody at the Smith County jail.
University Response and Actions
Dr. Julie V. Philley, the president of UT Tyler, confirmed the attack in a statement. She noted that an individual who was not a student assaulted three people. “UT Tyler police responded immediately and arrested the individual,” she said. The university has also issued a trespass order against Tomlian. He is now banned from school grounds.
President Philley emphasized the school’s stance on safety and rights. “Everyone has the right to free speech, and violence will not be tolerated at this university,” she stated. The attack marks the latest incident targeting this conservative youth organization, which saw its founder assassinated last year.
What the Video Shows
The video of the encounter reveals the escalation leading to the arrest. Before the cane swung, the suspect can be heard shouting at the group. According to the New York Post, he stated, “Back the f–k off you fascist pieces of s–t.” A woman off-camera told him to stay away, and he raised the cane before taking a swing in her direction.
Another man on the scene tried to de-escalate the situation. He told Tomlian to “back up.” When the suspect screamed “back up!” again, a male voice off-camera told him, “No one’s scared of you.” That comment triggered the final swing. The cane appeared to strike the speaker before someone else ran over and grabbed the weapon from Tomlian’s hands.
The incident has drawn attention to the safety of student groups on campus. Tomlian is no longer a student at the school, yet he entered the event and initiated violence. He has been charged with crimes that could carry significant prison time if convicted. The university maintains that its doors are open to all, but it will not allow violence to disrupt the campus.
