Large Crowds Expected at Andy Lopez March Tuesday

Authorities are preparing for a protest that could clog Santa Rosa streets Tuesday afternoon.

The march will be at least the fourth to protest the killing by sheriff's deputies of 13-year-old Andy Lopez, who was shot while holding an Airsoft-style rifle last week.

More than 1,000 people have RSVP'd via Facebook for the Tuesday march, and Sonoma County officials say they expect between 900 and 1,500 protesters.

At noon Tuesday, one group of protesters will march from the Old Courthouse Square, 300 Mendocino Ave. A second group will hold a rally at the same time at Santa Rosa Junior College, 1501 Mendocino Ave. The first group will march to the junior college, then both groups will march together to the sheriff's department, 2796 Ventura Ave. A rally will be held there at 3 p.m.

Officials warn about potential traffic impacts from the protest, and urge residents to reschedule appointments at the county headquarters.

Santa Rosa Police officials said in a statement they support the continued demonstrations, but urge residents to protest peacefully.

"The demonstration last Friday was mostly peaceful, but there were incidents that created risk and were harmful," police said in the statement. "Some demonstrators brought replica weapons to the march, and at least one person displayed the weapon to passing citizens. Santa Rosa Police Officers were forced to respond to address the situation that created unnecessary risks for all involved."

The department said it hopes to work with the community "to prevent further violence."

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