Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was injured while reporting live from peaceful immigration protests in Downtown Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. Covering the event for 9 News Australia, Tomasi was on the scene when tensions escalated between demonstrators and authorities. During the live broadcast, she was struck by what appeared to be a rubber projectile, prompting her to briefly step away from the camera. She later confirmed that she was not seriously injured and continued covering the protest.
Tomasi shared ongoing updates on social media, offering real-time insight into the rapidly evolving situation. Her posts included images of large crowds, a heavy police and military presence, and reports of flash bang grenades being used to disperse the protestors. The demonstration, which began peacefully, intensified following recent federal immigration actions that sparked concern throughout the community.
The protests first began on June 6, after immigration enforcement operations led to several detentions across Los Angeles. In response, federal officials deployed National Guard troops to assist local law enforcement. California state leaders criticized the move, calling for peaceful demonstrations and warning against further escalation. Concerns over the transparency and consequences of these enforcement measures have been voiced by both local and state officials.
As the situation develops, advocacy groups and community organizations are calling for legal assistance and accountability for those detained. At the same time, the broader debate over immigration policies and protest management continues to dominate public discourse. The incident involving Tomasi has also renewed focus on the importance of journalist safety during public demonstrations.