Journalist Hit by Rubber Bullet During Live Report on LA Protests

Los Angeles Protests: Australian Journalist Hit by Rubber Bullet During Live Report An Australian journalist covering protests in Los Angeles was unexpectedly struck by a rubber bullet during a live broadcast on June 9, 2025. The incident, captured on video, shows Lauren Tomasi, a reporter for 9News, reporting on the demonstration when a projectile suddenly hits her. The video, which has since gone viral, shows her colleague's immediate reaction, exclaiming, "They just shot!" The incident took place in the heart of Los Angeles, during a tense moment in the protest. The footage clearly shows the rubber bullet's trajectory and impact. The video has prompted widespread discussion and debate on social media, with many questioning whether the shooting was intentional. Some users have expressed outrage at what they perceive as an attack on press freedom. While law enforcement has yet to release an official statement, the incident underscores the risks faced by journalists covering protests and the need for greater safety measures. "It was a terrifying experience," Tomasi later stated in an interview. "I was just doing my job, and suddenly I was hit." The incident has raised concerns about the appropriate use of force by law enforcement during protests and the importance of protecting journalists' rights to report freely and safely. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in covering often volatile and dangerous situations. The ongoing investigation and public discourse surrounding the event highlight the crucial role of a free press in a democratic society.