During the LA riots sparked by President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, Australian reporter Lauren Tomasi from 9News was shot by a rubber bullet while filming live near the Metropolitan Detention Centre. Initially peaceful, the protests escalated as thousands joined, prompting LAPD to intervene with horseback units and rubber bullets. Tomasi was struck while reporting from 257 E Temple Street, moments after describing the deteriorating situation. A bystander shouted, “You just f**king shot the reporter,” as Tomasi calmly responded, “I’m good.”
Footage from Nine News revealed the officer aimed directly at Tomasi, suggesting a deliberate act. The network condemned the incident, emphasizing the risks journalists face and the importance of press freedom. Australian Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young called the shooting “shocking” and urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to demand accountability from the U.S., stressing that “freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of democracy.” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass appealed to residents to avoid violence, warning against giving the administration justification for further crackdowns.
The incident highlights the dangers journalists endure while covering civil unrest and raises serious concerns about press safety and law enforcement conduct during protests.