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Violence

Masked Protesters Clash with Police in Los Angeles, Targets Self-Driving Cars

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Thousands of activists gathered in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, leading to violent clashes with police. The protests, organized by the Los Angeles branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, targeted federal immigration raids, with demonstrators waving Mexican flags and spraying graffiti on buildings. The LAPD responded with rubber bullets, tear gas, and pepper spray, resulting in several injuries and property damage.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least four self-driving cars were completely burnt out, with only their wheels recognizable amid mounds of white ash and metal, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
  • Protesters were seen smashing and vandalizing Waymo autonomous taxis, with tires slashed and windows broken.
  • The LAPD warned people to avoid the area, citing the risks of toxic gases released by burning lithium-ion batteries.
  • Hundreds of National Guard troops were deployed to guard federal government buildings, marking the first time since 1965 that a president had activated a National Guard force without a state's governor's request.
  • An Australian journalist was shot in the leg with a rubber bullet while covering the protests, and a Telegraph reporter's car was hit by a projectile.
  • Swathes of downtown LA were coated in graffiti with messages including "F--- Ice, F--- Trump" and "Deport Trump's wife."
  • The protests were organized by the Los Angeles branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, and another was planned for the night before.
  • Cynthia Martinez, a 30-year-old teacher, said she attended the protest to fight for the rights of immigrants and stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.

Statistics:

  • At least four self-driving cars were burnt out.
  • Hundreds of National Guard troops were deployed to guard federal government buildings.
  • The protests resulted in several injuries, including an Australian journalist who was shot in the leg with a rubber bullet.
  • The LAPD deployed rubber bullets, tear gas, and pepper spray to disperse the crowds.
  • The protests were marked by the destruction of property, including smashed and vandalized Waymo autonomous taxis.
  • The Los Angeles Police Department warned people to avoid the area due to the risks of toxic gases released by burning lithium-ion batteries.

Sources:

  • The Los Angeles Times
  • The Telegraph
  • Nine News
  • Los Angeles Police Department
  • Party for Socialism and Liberation

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