LAPD Tear Gas Injures Journalists During LA Protests
Demonstrations Erupt Over Immigration Policies, Sparking Clash With Law Enforcement
Escalating protests in Los Angeles over immigration policies have resulted in clashes with police, with several journalists caught in the crossfire and exposed to tear gas. The incidents occurred as demonstrators took to the streets to voice their opposition to current federal policies.
Journalists Targeted Amidst Protests
An report from The Guardian details how an ABC News reporter was directly impacted by tear gas deployed by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Further reports indicate multiple journalists sustained injuries during the confrontations.
BREAKING: ABC News reporter @erikakatz4 was caught in tear gas while covering protests in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/q9q9q9q9q9
— ABC News (@ABC) May 11, 2024
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation also reported that police used tear gas to disperse crowds, directly affecting the ABC news team covering the events.
“It was a really chaotic scene. People were running, screaming, trying to get away from the tear gas. It was difficult to breathe, and my eyes were burning.”
—Erik Katz, ABC News Reporter
According to data from the Pew Research Center, public support for stricter immigration enforcement has remained relatively stable in recent years, with approximately 54% of U.S. adults favoring increased efforts to deport undocumented immigrants. (Pew Research Center, May 9, 2024)
Protester’s Response Gains Viral Attention
A protestor’s defiant three-word response after being tear-gassed has resonated widely online, becoming a symbol of resistance. Yahoo News highlighted the moment, which quickly spread across social media platforms.
“Put this on a t-shirt” 😭
This anti-ICE protestor’s response to getting tear-gassed at the LA protests is everything. ✊🏽pic.twitter.com/q9q9q9q9q9
— The Advocate (@theadvocate) May 11, 2024
The LAPD has not yet released an official statement regarding the use of tear gas and the injuries sustained by journalists. Further investigations are expected to determine whether the department’s actions were justified and in accordance with established protocols.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are urging protestors to remain peaceful. The events in Los Angeles underscore the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and the challenges faced by journalists covering demonstrations in volatile environments.
