What initially started as a demonstration against ICE raids and President Trump’s deployment of the National Guard has now evolved into a significantly more perilous situation. On Sunday, protesters flooded the city streets and even occupied the 101 Freeway, targeting California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicles and reportedly attempting to ignite them.
In one of the most alarming developments, demonstrators equipped with commercial-grade fireworks directed them straight at LAPD officers — fireworks that, according to LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, “can kill you.”
“Tonight we had individuals out there shooting commercial-grade fireworks at our officers that can kill you,” McDonnell stated.
The violence intensified.
A small fire even ignited behind an LAPD skirmish line, highlighting the volatility of the situation.
As the violence intensified, officers rushed to maintain order. Protesters were observed throwing objects, using anything available for protection, and in one alarming case, a Molotov cocktail was reportedly thrown. Another individual is accused of colliding with a police line using a motorcycle.
By nightfall, 27 individuals had been apprehended — 10 by LAPD and 17 by CHP — with further chaos anticipated.
“It has escalated since the onset of this incident,” McDonnell cautioned. “The situation is increasingly deteriorating and becoming more violent.”
“Disgusting”
During a press conference, the LAPD chief expressed his revulsion at what he termed the hijacking of peaceful protests by outsiders.
“It is even more appalling that many of those involved come from other areas solely to inflict harm and create disorder,” he stated.
“Disgusting,” he reiterated according to ABC, condemning the assaults on police involving Molotov cocktails, fireworks, and stones.
City officials are currently deliberating the imposition of a curfew. According to McDonnell, this possibility is being discussed with the L.A. County Sheriff, and the decision will be reevaluated as circumstances change.
Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom has continued his verbal assaults on President Trump, accusing the White House of exacerbating tensions in Southern California. Governor Newsom has been particularly outspoken in his criticism of President Donald Trump’s decision to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to California — a highly unusual action, as presidents typically do not undertake such measures without the support or request of the state’s governor.
“That action is deliberately provocative and will only heighten tensions,” Newsom remarked on X Saturday. “This is the incorrect mission and will undermine public trust.”
