Police said one protester had a crowbar and threatened a member who tried to stop the group.
SEATTLE — Seattle police said protesters broke into the Church of Scientology of Washington State on Saturday during a demonstration tied to an online trend.
The trend started in April, after social media users started posting videos of themselves entering properties of the Church of Scientology and “speedrunning” throughout the building.
Officers responded at about 3 p.m. to the religious center at 300 W. Harrison St. in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, according to the Seattle Police Department.
Police said some protesters damaged rear metal doors to force their way into the building.
One person was armed with a crowbar, according to police.
A member of the organization tried to stop the group from getting inside, but police said a protester brandished the crowbar, causing the member to fear for his safety.
After entering the building, the protesters shut off the electricity, disrupting services and causing members to shelter in place, police said.
Officers arrived and detained the suspects after a brief foot chase, according to police.
Investigators reviewed surveillance video and determined there was probable cause for second-degree burglary, hate crime and felony harassment, police said.
Police said patrol officers stayed visible at the scene after the investigation until all members safely left the building.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.Â
