Australian Journalist Hit by LAPD Rubber Bullet During Live Report

On Sunday afternoon, June 8, 2025, in the heart of Los Angeles, an Australian journalist, Lauren Tomasi, was struck by a rubber bullet fired by a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officer during a protest. The incident, captured live on 9News, shows Ms. Tomasi reporting on the protest when a rubber bullet hits her. She immediately exclaims, "You just f*cking shot the press!" The video shows the aftermath of the incident, as Ms. Tomasi and her crew react to the situation. The LAPD's use of force against a journalist raises significant concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists covering protests. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability. While the LAPD has yet to release a statement, the video itself serves as compelling evidence of the event and has already garnered considerable attention online. The incident highlights the inherent dangers faced by journalists while reporting in the field and underscores the need for stricter regulations on the use of force by law enforcement during public demonstrations. This event serves as a reminder of the crucial role of a free press in a democratic society.