A traditional Perchtenlauf event in Kärnten, Austria, turned violent on Saturday evening when a 63-year-old man attacked a police officer.

The man, attending the event in Steinfeld, began verbally abusing police officers and became increasingly aggressive.

When asked to stop and identify himself, he refused and was taken into custody.

During the arrest, he deliberately kicked a female officer, causing serious injuries.

The man has been charged with resisting state authority and causing grievous bodily harm.

The incident has raised concerns about safety at such cultural events, which are meant to celebrate tradition and community.