On June 6, 2025, Los Angeles became the epicenter of widespread protests following multiple federal immigration raids. Among the most intense demonstrations occurred outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, where Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi, reporting live for 9News Australia, was struck by a rubber bullet allegedly fired by a police officer at close range.
Tomasi was covering the unfolding situation on the ground as protests intensified in response to ICE agents raiding a Fashion District apparel factory. The operation was one of at least three raids reported across LA that day. The events soon escalated, drawing national attention and raising questions about the treatment of journalists and the conduct of law enforcement.
The Federal Raids That Sparked Outrage
According to the New York Times, the June 6 raids were part of a coordinated ICE enforcement campaign. The targeted facilities employed undocumented workers, and dozens were detained in the early morning hours. As the news spread, crowds rapidly formed downtown, particularly near the detention center, where many believed the arrestees were being processed.
Protesters chanted, held signs, and blocked intersections. Initially, LAPD maintained a passive presence, but tensions mounted as night fell. Some demonstrators reportedly set vehicles ablaze, launched fireworks, and threw projectiles. Amid the chaos, President Donald Trump activated the National Guard, marking the first federal troop deployment to Los Angeles without state approval since the 1965 Watts Riots.
Reporting from the Frontline
On June 8, Lauren Tomasi and her cameraman were reporting live near the detention center. “They’ve told people to get out of this area, and protesters have been refusing,” she said on air. “We are safe here. It’s just noisy. But you can see the volatility. I can see police here are firing rubber bullets at these protesters.”
Shortly after this segment, the live broadcast was paused to allow the crew to move to a safer location. However, Tomasi soon returned to air, explaining that the situation had “rapidly deteriorated.”
“The LAPD is moving in on horseback,” she narrated, as the sound of gunfire echoed through the streets behind her. Moments later, she was struck by a rubber bullet.
Video footage widely shared online shows the exact moment: a police officer appears to aim in Tomasi’s direction as she walks away, clearly identifiable with a microphone and press badge. Gun smoke follows, and she recoils in pain.
“You just shot a reporter!” one witness shouted.
Tomasi, regaining her composure, confirmed: “I’m okay. My cameraman Jimmy and I are both safe. This is just one of the unfortunate realities of reporting on these kinds of incidents.”
Public Outcry and Condemnation
The incident sparked immediate backlash, especially on social media. Clips of the broadcast and eyewitness videos went viral, with many accusing the officer of intentionally targeting an unarmed journalist.
While LAPD has yet to comment in detail, press freedom advocates and Australian officials quickly responded.
The publisher of 9News Australia issued a statement: “Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines.”
Australian Senator Sarah Hanson-Young condemned the act and called for action. “US authorities shooting an Australian journalist is simply shocking,” she told 9News. “It is completely unacceptable and must be called out. Prime Minister Albanese must seek an urgent explanation from the US administration.”
The Broader Threat to Press Freedom
This is not the first time journalists have been harmed while covering protests in the United States. In recent years, multiple reporters have been injured by crowd-control measures, raising global concerns about press freedom and the safety of media workers.
Lauren Tomasi has been a familiar face on Australian television, known for her calm and thorough reporting under pressure. Her new assignment in Washington D.C. was set to begin later this year. The attack has now brought her into an unintentional spotlight.
Experts warn that the growing hostility toward journalists, particularly in high-tension environments, threatens the free flow of information.
Tomasi’s Response
Despite the incident, Tomasi expressed resilience. Later that night, reporting from a cleared city street, she said: “There has been a lot of tempers flaring here today and certainly tonight there is a lot of anger in the City of Angels.”
She added, “This entire area has been cleared out. The city warned that if anyone moves through here, they will be arrested on the spot.”
Her calm, composed reporting in the aftermath only reinforced her professional reputation, and colleagues from around the world offered support and admiration for her courage.
What Happens Next?
While many are demanding accountability from LAPD, no formal investigation or public disciplinary action has yet been announced. Press advocacy organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, have urged U.S. officials to launch an inquiry and reaffirm the rights of journalists under the First Amendment.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s upcoming meeting with President Trump has taken on new urgency. Calls are growing for him to address the incident directly with U.S. leadership and demand stronger protections for international reporters.
Conclusion
The shooting of Lauren Tomasi has become more than just a disturbing moment in the middle of a chaotic protest. It stands as a symbol of the risks journalists face in the line of duty and the fragile state of press freedom in protest zones.
As debates over law enforcement accountability and immigration policy continue, so too must the dialogue about how to protect those committed to delivering the truth—even when it means standing in harm’s way.
Sources
- New York Times
- 9News Australia
- Committee to Protect Journalists – U.S. press freedom tracker
- Australian Senate Statement on June 9, 2025
- LAPD Public Information Office
