LA Protests: Waymo Self-Driving Cars Set on Fire

Los Angeles Protests Turn Violent: Waymo Self-Driving Cars Set Ablaze Los Angeles, CA – Anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles took a destructive turn on June 8, 2025, as demonstrators targeted Waymo's self-driving vehicles. Several Waymo cars were vandalized and set on fire during the demonstrations, which were sparked by President Trump's immigration policies. Videos circulating on social media show protesters spray-painting anti-ICE slogans on the vehicles before setting them ablaze. "It was chaotic," said one eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous. "People were angry, and the situation escalated quickly." The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of autonomous vehicles in urban environments. Waymo, owned by Google's Alphabet, responded by restricting its self-driving taxis from operating in the downtown Los Angeles area. The company has not yet commented on the cost of the damage or the impact on its fleet of 300 EVs in the city. The incident highlights the vulnerability of autonomous vehicles to vandalism and the potential for protests to disrupt technological advancements. The events underscore the need for robust security measures to protect autonomous vehicles from such attacks.