Heavy Security with Olympic Torch
The Olympic torch relay involved heavy security in San Francisco, and the threat of violent protests made officials make dramatic last-minute changes, according to CNN.
The plans involved a waterfront closing ceremony, which was abruptly canceled, writes CNN.
The torch’s path through the city was also changed and shortened to try to minimize the chances that protesters would affect the event, reported CNN.
Anti-Chinese protesters and Beijing supporters crowded the streets on the planned route, before the start of the relay, according to CNN.
The LA Times reports hundreds of protesters and supporters were present in Justin Herman Plaza where the closing ceremonies were scheduled to take place when the announcement was made that the torch would not be stopping at Justin Herman Plaza.
After the announcement was made the crowd groaned and a naked man appeared on the stage but was quickly removed by the police, reports the LA Times.
Many people had traveled as far away as the east coast to see the torch, "We are duped and are mad at the mayor," said Alice, a retired city employee. "They should have told us it was not coming." (LA Times)