This article was originally published on June 9 at 6:43 a.m. PT and has been updated with the latest information.
In a dramatic turn of events, several autonomous vehicles and electric scooters were set ablaze during a weekend of unrest in downtown Los Angeles. The chaos was fueled by protests against immigration enforcement actions in the city, which have drawn significant public outcry.
On Sunday evening, a group of demonstrators targeted multiple autonomous vehicles, vandalizing them on Los Angeles Street. Reports indicate that protesters slashed tires, shattered windows, and spray-painted messages opposing immigration enforcement. The situation escalated as the vehicles began honking in unison, creating a cacophony amidst the turmoil.
Additionally, some electric scooters were reportedly thrown into the flames engulfing the autonomous vehicles. Authorities have warned that burning lithium-ion batteries can release harmful gases, posing a serious health risk to those nearby.
The motivations behind the attack on the autonomous vehicles remain unclear. Historically, law enforcement has utilized footage from these vehicles to assist in criminal investigations. For instance, video evidence from an autonomous vehicle was previously used in a hit-and-run case, raising questions about the relationship between technology and policing.
While the electric scooter company has not issued a statement regarding the incident, the autonomous vehicle operator has confirmed that they are cooperating with law enforcement. They have expressed intentions to pursue legal action against those responsible for the vandalism.
There have been reports circulating on social media suggesting that the autonomous vehicle fleet has been temporarily withdrawn from Los Angeles, and service has been suspended. The company has been contacted for further clarification on this matter.
Since the launch of its self-driving ride-hailing service in Los Angeles in late 2024, the vehicles have faced multiple acts of vandalism. Notably, a resident in the Bay Area was charged with damaging numerous autonomous vehicles over a short period.
The protests in Los Angeles began on June 6, following a series of aggressive immigration enforcement actions that resulted in the arrest of over 100 individuals. The demonstrations, which included both peaceful and violent elements, spread to surrounding areas and disrupted major traffic routes.
In response to the escalating situation, federal authorities have mobilized the National Guard to assist local law enforcement. This decision has sparked controversy, with state officials, including the governor, opposing the federal intervention and calling it a violation of state sovereignty.
As tensions rise, there are concerns about the potential for further violence. Videos shared online depict law enforcement clashing with protesters, raising alarms about the use of force against demonstrators and journalists alike.