Julio Cesar Lopez Zavala was taken into custody five days after the August 16 incident, which occurred around 8:30 p.m. in a stadium seating area and was captured on video that later went viral. The footage, posted by the victim on social media in an effort to identify her attacker, shows Lopez Zavala exchanging heated words with the woman before unleashing a series of right-handed punches that knocked her unconscious.
The confrontation reportedly began after the victim’s boyfriend accidentally spilled a drink on Lopez Zavala. According to the woman’s account, the suspect initially left the area but returned about 30 minutes later “livid” and “screaming death threats.” The situation escalated when the woman took a swing at Lopez Zavala, who responded with multiple blows as bystanders attempted to intervene. One woman trying to stop the attack nearly pulled the assailant’s pants down from behind, but he continued the assault.
Pasadena Fire Department paramedics treated the unconscious woman at the scene. She was not transported to a hospital. Police said three people were assaulted to varying degrees during the incident, though no further details about the other victims have been released.
Detectives used the viral video and numerous public tips to identify Lopez Zavala, whose face was clearly visible in the recording. He was arrested in Hawthorne on August 21. Formal charges are pending review by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
The attack occurred during Saturday evening’s performance by the Australian electronic music group Rüfüs Du Sol, part of their North American tour. The Rose Bowl, which seats more than 90,000 for concerts, has hosted numerous major acts throughout its history.
Police have not disclosed additional information about the extent of the other victims’ injuries or whether further arrests are expected.
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