Santa Barbara County Deputies are investigating a possible hate crime that sent two men to the hospital in Isla Vista.
Deputies said six to ten boys attacked two men at Estero Park around 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Armed with a baton, the group allegedly beat them until they were chased off by a passing bicyclist.
One man, a 21-year-old University of Santa Barbara student, received a large cut to his head and a broken jaw. The other had a cut lip, several welts across his back and an injured shoulder.
The group of attackers ran away and deputies are still searching for them.
Deputies said they are investigating the possibility of the attack being a gang-related hate crime. One of the victims reported that they made sexual derogatory comments toward his sexual orientation during the assault. Deputies do not currently have evidence as to what motivated the attack.
Anyone with information about the attack is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office. People can leave anonymous tips at (805) 681-4171.
