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Community rallies around gay couple attacked on U Street

The attack on Carl Craven and Braden Brecht was just one of five crimes that happened early Sunday in the U Street area of D.C.

WASHINGTON -- Pictures show the terrible aftermath of a beating early Sunday morning on U Street. 

Carl Craven says he and his boyfriend Braden Brecht were attacked by a large group of people, hitting them and yelling gay slurs.

Braden says the attackers took turns kicking, then punching him. Sadly, the couple had only moved to D.C. not even a month ago.

Credit: Courtesy

"That was the moment I was scared, is when you can't even see the sky you see people hovering over you. Later, you remember a girl helping you wipe the blood off," said Brecht. 

RELATED: Several victims assaulted and robbed in DC burglary, four suspects arrested

Brecht suffered lacerations, knee problems and a broken tooth in the attack. 

In all there were five attacks, starting at 1:44 a.m. to 3:02 a.m. It was a disturbing chain of robberies and assaults. 

Credit: WUSA

DC police have arrested 19-year-old Akiz Peterson of Temple Hills and 19-year-old Marcus Britt, along with a 15 and 16-year-old in connection with the assault. More arrests are expected.

While police haven't officially called what happened to Craven and Brecht a hate crime -- so far this year, there have been 89 hate crimes reported in the District.

Credit: Courtesy

A GoFundMe page has surpassed the goal to help pay for Braden's medical bills. Craven and Brecht say they have been humbled by all the well wishes and support from around the country.

If you have any additonal information, please contact DC police. 

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