The case, which drew national attention after video of the attack went viral on social media, is set for Dept. H at the Pasadena Courthouse, 300 E. Walnut St. The defendant is identified on the court calendar as Julio Cesar Zavala Madrigal and is charged with battery. Media reports at the time of his arrest identified him as Julio Cesar Lopez Zavala, 23, of Hawthorne.
The defendant pleaded not guilty on August 25, 2025, to two felony counts of assault, according to NBC Los Angeles. A judge released him on his own recognizance with an ankle monitor after determining he did not pose a threat to public safety.
The charges stem from an incident on August 16, 2025, at approximately 8:30 p.m. during the electronic music group’s concert at the Rose Bowl. Three people were assaulted after the suspect became agitated when a drink was spilled, according to a Pasadena Police Department statement.
One victim, an Arizona woman, was knocked unconscious and suffered significant injuries, according to multiple news reports. Her fiancé was also injured while attempting to intervene. Pasadena Fire Department paramedics treated the woman at the scene.
Video of the assault was posted on social media and attracted nationwide attention, with police crediting the footage and tips from the public for identifying the suspect. He was arrested five days later in Hawthorne.
The victims filed a civil lawsuit against the Rose Bowl Operating Company and the defendant in October 2025, alleging inadequate security. That lawsuit was dismissed without prejudice in November 2025, according to ABC7 Los Angeles.
A preliminary hearing is a proceeding in which a judge determines whether sufficient evidence exists to hold a defendant for trial.
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