Man shot during altercation at pro-Israel rally in Massachusetts

Incident occurs when passerby exchanged words with demonstrators before crossing the street to tackle one of them

A man was shot and critically injured during a confrontation at a pro-Israel rally in Newton, Massachusetts, on Thursday evening.

The incident occurred around 6:40 pm (local time) when the man, a passerby, reportedly exchanged words with demonstrators before crossing the street and tackling one of them.

Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan confirmed that a scuffle broke out, during which 47-year-old Scott Hayes, a demonstrator from Framingham, shot the man.

The victim, whose identity has not been released, was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Hayes was arrested on charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and violating a constitutional right causing injury.

He is scheduled to be arraigned in Newton District Court on Friday.

Authorities are investigating the shooting and have urged anyone with photos or videos of the incident to come forward.

Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller described the situation as "frightening" and asked the community to remain calm while the investigation continues.