In recent days, Los Angeles has been gripped by chaos and tumult. Amidst this turbulent environment, Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi experienced a shocking encounter – she was hit by a rubber bullet amidst the violent conflicts.
“They Shot the Reporter!”
Lauren Tomasi, who reports for Nine News as their U.S. correspondent, has been diligently covering the protests that arose in opposition to President Donald Trump’s contentious immigration policy crackdowns.
On Sunday, June 8th, a wave of demonstrators inundated downtown Los Angeles, at one point igniting vehicles near the Metropolitan Detention Centre.
The day started rather quietly with small protest groups denouncing the immigration raids, but emotions flared, causing the crowds to balloon to thousands by the afternoon.
While reporting live from 257 E Temple Street, Tomasi described the LAPD’s actions, noting they were charging forward on horseback, using rubber bullets against protestors. In a moment that suddenly became personal, Tomasi herself was hit by one of these bullets.
Amidst the clamor, a bystander’s voice cut through definitively: “They shot the reporter!”
Staying composed, Tomasi assured concerned onlookers, “I’m good,” when asked about her condition. Footage broadcast by Nine News appears to reveal an officer directing fire towards her. The network later verified in a statement:
“Lauren Tomasi was indeed struck by a rubber bullet. Lauren and her camera operator remain safe and will continue reporting these crucial events. This situation serves as a jarring reminder of the risks journalists face on the frontline of protests, underlining their critical role in delivering essential news.”
Calls for Accountability
In response to this disturbing incident, Australian Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young quickly pressured U.S. authorities for accountability.
“It is imperative for [Prime Minister Anthony Albanese] to convey to the president the need to cease such actions against our journalists,” she stated. “A free press is foundational to any vibrant and effective democracy.”
The ongoing protests, primarily driven by recent immigration raids, had led the LAPD to label the situation as an “unlawful assembly” with public alerts on social media urging both civilians and journalists to avoid the Civic Center area.
This event has incited global dismay and added pressure on law enforcement’s handling of force during civil strife. In response, President Trump has been quoted instructing the LAPD to “bring in the troops,” leading to the National Guard being deployed to assist the stretched police forces.
Encouraging Peace in Troubled Times
President Trump has characterized Los Angeles as a hub of lawlessness where Democratic leaders have conceded control. Nevertheless, the disturbances have been primarily confined to a small section of downtown.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is appealing to citizens to refrain from violence.
“Citizens of Los Angeles — resist engaging in violence and disorder. Don’t fulfill what the administration desires,” she urged via the platform X.
Both Mayor Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom have openly opposed Trump’s instructions to send the National Guard to Los Angeles.
As the situation continues to unfold, one truth remains evident: the frontline of protests is fraught with escalating risks — impacting not only those who march, but also those who strive to share their narratives with the world.
