Australian journalist shot by police while covering LA protests
Incident sparks global outrage and calls for press protection amid U.S. immigration protest chaos
Australian reporter Lauren Tomasi was hit by a rubber bullet fired by police while reporting live on violent protests in Los Angeles, raising serious concerns about press safety and police conduct.
The streets of downtown Los Angeles turned into a scene of unrest on Sunday, June 8, as thousands protested against President Donald Trump’s harsh immigration raids. Fires burned near the Metropolitan Detention Centre, and tensions escalated quickly from peaceful demonstrations to violent clashes.
Among those covering the turmoil was Lauren Tomasi, a U.S. correspondent for Australia’s Nine News. While reporting live from 257 E Temple Street, she described how police on horseback were firing rubber bullets at protesters. Moments later, she was struck by one of those bullets.
A shocked bystander yelled, “You just f**king shot the reporter,” as Tomasi confirmed she was okay, calmly responding, “I’m good.”
Footage shared by Nine News appears to show an officer aiming directly at Tomasi before firing. The network confirmed that she and her camera operator were safe but highlighted the risks journalists face during civil unrest.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests,” Nine News stated. “Their role in providing vital information is more important than ever.”
Political backlash and global concern
The shooting has stirred international outrage. Australian Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young called on the U.S. government for answers, saying, “The first thing [Prime Minister Anthony Albanese] must tell the president is to stop shooting at our journalists. Freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of a strong, functioning democracy.”
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Police Department had already declared the protest an “unlawful assembly,” urging the public and press to steer clear of Civic Center.
The LAPD’s response has drawn renewed criticism, especially after President Trump reportedly pushed for troops to be deployed. The National Guard is now assisting the overwhelmed police force.
Local leaders push back
Despite Trump’s claims that Los Angeles is in chaos and Democrats have “lost control,” the unrest is mostly contained to a few downtown blocks. Mayor Karen Bass urged residents to avoid violence, tweeting: “Angelenos — do not take part in violence and chaos. Don’t give the administration what it wants.”
Governor Gavin Newsom also opposed Trump’s decision to bring in the National Guard, echoing concerns over escalating force.
Tomasi’s injury just shows the growing risks for journalists covering protests in America. As freedom of the press comes under pressure, incidents like this remind the world how fragile democracy can feel — especially when those telling the truth become targets themselves.
