Reporter Hit by Rubber Bullet During Los Angeles Protest

Los Angeles Protest Turns Violent: Reporter Hit by Rubber Bullet Los Angeles, CA – A Nine Network reporter covering a protest in Los Angeles was struck by a rubber bullet fired by a police officer on June 9, 2025. The incident, captured on video, has sparked outrage and raised questions about police tactics. The video shows reporter Lauren Tomasi reporting live when a rubber bullet whizzes past and strikes her. The impact is clearly visible, and Tomasi reacts immediately, dropping her microphone. The video then shows the chaotic scene unfolding around her as protesters and police clash. "It happened so fast," Tomasi said in a later interview. "One moment I was reporting, the next, I was hit. I didn't even see it coming." The incident occurred during a protest against ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), and tensions were already high between protesters and law enforcement. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident but stated that they are investigating the matter. The video footage, however, clearly shows the reporter was not posing a threat. This raises concerns about the LAPD's use of potentially dangerous force against journalists covering the event. The incident highlights the dangers faced by journalists covering protests and the need for greater accountability from law enforcement agencies. The incident is under investigation by the LAPD. The reporter, Lauren Tomasi, sustained minor injuries and is recovering.