The whole incident was captured on camera 👀 😳

Chaos erupted in downtown Los Angeles as protests over President Donald Trump’s latest immigration crackdown escalated into violence. Among those caught in the turmoil was Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi, struck by a rubber bullet while reporting live for Nine News.

Footage appears to show an LAPD officer deliberately firing in Tomasi’s direction. A bystander can be heard shouting, “You just f**king shot the reporter.” Tomasi remained composed, assuring those nearby she was okay.

The protests, which began peacefully on June 8, turned violent as crowds swelled, vehicles were set ablaze near the Metropolitan Detention Centre, and police moved in with rubber bullets and horseback units.

The incident sparked international backlash. Australian Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young demanded answers, stating, “Freedom of the press is a pillar of democracy.”

Trump has since deployed the National Guard to LA, calling the city a “lawless zone,” while Mayor Karen Bass urged residents not to “give the administration what it wants” through further violence.

As tensions continue, the safety of journalists on the frontlines remains under global scrutiny.