Protests broke out in Los Angeles over the weekend after federal immigration raids led to the arrest of 121 people. The arrests sparked unrest, including looting, arson, and violent clashes with police.
ICE reported 44 arrests at a single job site and an additional 77 arrests made across the Los Angeles area during the same period. Protests began on Friday in Westlake, downtown, and South Los Angeles and continued through the weekend.
By Sunday, the situation escalated. Protesters set fires, destroyed property, and attacked officers. Police arrested 42 people for crimes, including looting and attempted murder. Several businesses on Broadway were damaged, including a T-Mobile store and athletic shops. Five Waymo self-driving cars were also set on fire near Union Station.
Videos online showed people breaking into stores. One livestream showed looters ransacking a Jordan store. Another video showed a convenience store being emptied. Police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets.
That night, the LAPD went on tactical alert. Protesters set fires in dumpsters and vandalized buildings, including LAPD headquarters and the U.S. Courthouse. The 101 Freeway was shut down twice after objects and firecrackers were thrown at officers.
President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles without Governor Newsom’s approval. Newsom responded online, calling it a violation of state authority, and asked for the order to be reversed.
On Monday, protests continued at Grand Park. Civil rights groups called for the release of union leader David Huerta, who was arrested during Friday’s raids and later released on bond. Police prepared for more protests as 700 Marines arrived, with another 2,000 Guard troops expected.
