Tensions remain high in Los Angeles tonight as law enforcement and National Guard troops continue their crackdown on violent protests sparked by a wave of federal immigration raids. What began as demonstrations against ICE operations has spiraled into three days of unrest, mass arrests, and fiery clashes across the city.
Authorities say over 40 protesters have been arrested since the weekend, with charges ranging from looting and assault to arson and even attempted murder. One individual, officials confirmed, was taken into custody for allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at officers.
The unrest erupted Friday after federal agents conducted large-scale sweeps through L.A.’s garment district, detaining more than 100 undocumented immigrants, including five individuals linked to violent gangs, according to ICE.
As demonstrations escalated, President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to California—300 of whom were on the ground by Sunday. On his social media platform, Trump praised the move, claiming it prevented “complete obliteration” of the city.
By Sunday, the situation had taken a volatile turn. Protesters reportedly blocked major highways, set at least four self-driving vehicles ablaze, and ignited explosive fireballs in downtown L.A., prompting a heavy response. Tear gas and crowd-control munitions were deployed as demonstrators advanced on government buildings and major intersections, including the 101 Freeway and the L.A. Live district.
The Los Angeles Police Department later issued an unlawful assembly order, shutting down large swaths of the city center. Officials from LAPD, the California Highway Patrol, and the L.A. Sheriff’s Department say they’re coordinating closely with federal partners to maintain control amid fears of renewed clashes.
Meanwhile, the political fallout is growing. California Governor Gavin Newsom has condemned Trump’s deployment of the military, calling it a “dangerous abuse of power.” He accused the former president of pushing an authoritarian agenda and vowed to take legal action against the administration.
“This isn’t about public safety,” Newsom said. “It’s about consolidating control and feeding an ego. These actions betray the democratic values this country was built on.”
Back at the federal level, ICE is defending the raids and the crackdown. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security criticized California officials, accusing them of protecting “murderers and rapists” over law-abiding citizens.
“These rioters aren’t heroes,” said DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin. “They’re fighting to keep dangerous criminals on the streets of L.A. ICE officers are risking their lives to make these communities safer.”
Local leaders, including Mayor Karen Bass, have yet to publicly respond, though sources tell SNEWS TV she’s monitoring the situation closely alongside state officials.
Tonight, downtown Los Angeles remains under tight surveillance, and the National Guard presence is expected to increase if conditions worsen.
We will continue to follow this developing story closely.
Reporting by Katy Moore.
