Security forces in Los Angeles unleashed tear gas, flashbangs, and rubber bullets Sunday to disperse protesters rallying against President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, which has led to dozens of detentions.
The clashes, centered near the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building and the 101 Freeway, saw demonstrators hurl fireworks, Molotov cocktails, and a scooter at police, damaging vehicles.
At least 27 people were arrested, with LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell reporting 10 additional arrests by Sunday night.
“Our officers are really under attack,” said LAPD Captain Raul Jovel, noting three officers sustained minor injuries.
Protesters also set two self-driving cars ablaze, prompting authorities to declare all of downtown Los Angeles an unlawful assembly area.
Trump’s decision to deploy 300 National Guard troops to protect federal buildings, without California’s consent, has fueled tensions.
Governor Gavin Newsom called the move “inflammatory” and vowed to sue the Trump administration, echoing Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s criticism.
Trump labeled protesters “paid insurrectionists,” while FBI Director Kash Patel vowed to restore order, claiming the city was “under siege by marauding criminals.”
Meanwhile, 500 Marines are on “prepared to deploy” status, raising fears of further escalation.
CNN analyst Juliette Kayyem questioned Trump’s motives, stating, “No rules of engagement. No mission statement. And now, the threat of active military — raises a certain question about whether the White House is in the job of de-escalation or escalation.”
The unrest, now in its third day, shut down the 101 Freeway for 90 minutes, with southbound lanes later closed again due to objects thrown at police.
Flightradar24 data showed police helicopters from the LAPD, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and California Highway Patrol circling neighborhoods like Chinatown and Compton from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.
Similar clashes in San Francisco led to 60 arrests. As protests continue into the night, Newsom’s legal challenge and the federal response remain flashpoints in this escalating crisis.