Florida Rep. Maxwell Frost assaulted at Sundance-related party in Utah; suspect arrested and jailed

Incident reported at invitation-only event in Park City

U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost, a Democrat who represents Florida’s 10th Congressional District, said he was assaulted during a Sundance Film Festival week event in Park City, Utah. The incident occurred late Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, into early Saturday, Jan. 24, at an invitation-only party hosted by Creative Artists Agency (CAA) at the High West venue, a site commonly used for festival-adjacent gatherings.

Frost stated publicly that a man told him he would be deported before punching him in the face and that the assailant yelled racist remarks. Frost later said he was physically okay and credited venue security and local police for responding.

Police: suspect unlawfully entered and assaulted two people

Law enforcement in Park City identified the suspect as Christian Joel Young, 28. Investigators allege Young unlawfully entered the private party after being turned away for not having an invitation. Police reports describe two alleged victims: Frost and a female attendee. Authorities said Young was arrested and booked into the Summit County Jail.

Charging information reported in connection with the arrest includes aggravated burglary and assault counts, including an allegation involving an elected official. A judge ordered Young held without bail, citing concerns that he could pose a danger to the community and might flee if released.

Responses from political leaders and festival organizers

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries publicly condemned the assault and called for prosecution, describing the episode as unacceptable and emphasizing that hate and political violence should have no place in the country.

Sundance Film Festival organizers issued a statement condemning the assault and denouncing violence, harassment and hate speech. They also emphasized that the incident occurred at a non-festival-affiliated event while reiterating a commitment to the safety of attendees during the broader festival period.

What is known, and what remains under investigation

• Known: Frost reported being punched and described racist verbal harassment; police said a suspect entered a private event unlawfully and assaulted Frost and a second attendee; the suspect was arrested and jailed.

• Pending: The full sequence of events inside the venue, any additional witnesses, and whether prosecutors pursue hate-crime enhancements or other charges have not been fully detailed publicly.

Frost said he was “okay” after the attack and thanked venue security and police for intervening.