Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was reporting live in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, June 8, when a peaceful immigration protest took a sudden and violent turn. The demonstration, held outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, began with chants and signs but escalated dramatically by mid-afternoon. As police on horseback moved to disperse the crowd, rubber bullets were fired to clear the area.
While covering the event for Nine News on E. Temple Street, Tomasi remained calm as officers approached. Moments later, one officer reportedly fired a rubber bullet that struck her in the shoulder during the live broadcast. A bystander’s shocked voice was captured on air, reacting to the incident. Despite the painful hit, Tomasi quickly reassured viewers, saying, “I’m good,” while continuing her report.
Nine News later issued a statement commending Tomasi’s professionalism and confirming the safety of both her and her camera operator. “This incident highlights the critical role journalists play—and the risks they face—while documenting events in real time,” the statement read.
In Australia, the incident prompted political concern. Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to raise the matter with U.S. officials, stating, “Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy. Journalists must be protected as they carry out their work.”
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