Nevada Family Arrested Over Racial Slur

RENO, Nevada (AP) — A Nevada family has been arrested following a verbal altercation in Virginia City, where a Black man reported being subjected to a racial slur. The individuals arrested include a 74-year-old man, his 67-year-old wife, and their 45-year-old daughter. They were taken into custody on Wednesday and have since posted bail, according to Storey County Undersheriff Eric Kern. The male suspect faces misdemeanor charges, including a noise violation and breach of peace, with the latter enhanced due to the racial nature of the incident. These charges carry potential penalties of fines up to $1,000 and six months in jail. The incident gained attention after a video was shared on social media, prompting local authorities to investigate related acts of vandalism and threats against businesses in the area. The confrontation occurred during a classic car festival when Ricky Johnson, the man who reported the incident, was gathering signatures for a ballot measure. Johnson alleged that the suspect made a reference to a “hanging tree,” although the video does not contain any explicit racial slurs. Johnson later posted the footage on TikTok, which led to widespread condemnation from officials at various levels. In response to the incident, the Storey County Sheriff’s Office is also addressing ongoing threats and harassment directed at the community, as they compile reports of such incidents. The investigation continues as officials review all relevant information surrounding the altercation.