Australian Reporter Struck by Rubber Bullet During Live Coverage of LA Protests

Tensions escalated during weekend protests in Los Angeles, culminating in a moment caught live on camera: Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet while delivering a live report for the Nine Network.

The incident occurred Sunday amid chaotic scenes as the Los Angeles Police Department moved to disperse demonstrators in the heart of the city. Video footage shows officers on horseback advancing through crowds, with rubber bullets being fired in multiple directions.

A warning to viewers preceded the footage:

“We want to warn you, the video you're about to see could be disturbing to some viewers.”

Seconds later, the camera captured the moment Tomasi was hit from behind by a rubber bullet, fired by a police officer. She appears visibly stunned as she recoils from the impact, though she remains standing.

Tomasi had been reporting live for Australian audiences on the growing unrest in Los Angeles following controversial immigration raids earlier in the week — events that sparked protests, some of which turned violent.

Following the incident, Nine Network released a statement reassuring viewers:

“Lauren Tomasi and her camera operator are safe and will continue their essential work covering these events.”

The footage is already circulating widely on social media and in international news outlets, renewing concerns over journalist safety during civil unrest. It’s not the first time foreign correspondents have been injured while covering U.S. protests — and media advocacy groups have repeatedly called for better protections for journalists on the ground.

The LAPD has not yet commented publicly on the specific incident.

As the situation in Los Angeles continues to evolve, both journalists and demonstrators face increasing challenges — with this latest episode highlighting the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous conditions under which reporters work.