A Nine News US correspondent, Lauren Tomasi, was shot with a rubber bullet by police while reporting on protests in Los Angeles. The incident occurred during a demonstration against President Donald Trump's crackdown on immigration, which turned violent with protesters setting fire to cars in the street.
Tomasi was reporting live at the scene, describing the situation as "rapidly deteriorating" with the LAPD moving in on horseback and firing rubber bullets at protesters. Seconds later, she was struck by a rubber bullet, prompting a bystander to exclaim, "You just f**king shot the reporter." Tomasi responded, "I'm good," when asked if she was okay.
The outlet released a statement, saying, "Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet. Lauren and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events." Nine emphasized the importance of journalists' roles in providing vital information, highlighting the inherent dangers they face while reporting from the frontlines of protests.
Australian Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young has called for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to seek an urgent explanation from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) regarding the incident. She described the shooting as "simply shocking" and "completely unacceptable," emphasizing the need to protect freedom of the press.
The LAPD had issued a warning to the public prior to the riots, declaring an unlawful assembly and advising people to stay away from the Civic Center area. They also cautioned media partners to keep a safe distance from active operations.
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