10.06.2025 01:16

Several Waymo self-driving vehicles became the unfortunate victims of vandalism and arson during a demonstration in downtown Los Angeles, protesting ICE raids and the National Guard's presence. The protest, which took a violent turn on Sunday evening, saw demonstrators targeting the autonomous taxis, resulting in significant damage.

Videos circulating online vividly depict protestors climbing onto the vehicles, shattering windows, and defacing the cars with graffiti. According to KTLA reporting, at least five Waymo vehicles sustained severe damage, culminating in their being set ablaze. This act of arson posed additional hazards, as the Los Angeles Police Department issued warnings about toxic fumes from the burning lithium-ion batteries, specifically mentioning the risk of hydrogen fluoride release.

The incident prompted Waymo to temporarily suspend operations in the affected downtown Los Angeles area, a precaution confirmed by a company spokesperson. While the spokesperson emphasized that Waymo's services remain active in Los Angeles overall, they clarified that vehicles have been withdrawn from the downtown core as a safety measure. Notably, the spokesperson stated there's no indication Waymo was specifically targeted.

Following the attacks, Waymo is fully cooperating with law enforcement officials in the ongoing investigation. The exact reasons for the vehicles' presence in the area during the protest remain unclear. The lack of clarity surrounding this detail adds another layer of complexity to this incident.