Autonomous Cars Torch Setback: Waymo Suspends Downtown LA Operations as Anti-ICE Riots Erupt in 2025
Waymo halts driverless car service in downtown LA after protesters torch vehicles during anti-ICE riots. Authorities rush to restore order.
- Multiple Waymo cars torched during anti-ICE riots on June 8, 2025.
- Waymo pauses downtown LA operations—but continues elsewhere in the city.
- National Guard deployed as violence surges after federal immigration raids.
- Local business damage and looting reported across central Los Angeles.
The future of urban mobility hit a burning roadblock this week as Waymo, Alphabet’s ambitious self-driving car company, yanked its autonomous vehicles from downtown Los Angeles. The bold move comes after anti-ICE protesters set multiple Waymo cars ablaze amid violent riots sparked by controversial federal immigration raids.
Local residents watched in shock as flames engulfed Waymo vehicles in the heart of LA, mere blocks from city landmarks and headquarters. The chaos began late Sunday, June 8, 2025, and spread quickly—forcing Waymo to declare a temporary retreat from the city center “out of an abundance of caution.” The company, however, insists that its robotaxis will continue serving other LA neighborhoods for now.
Why Did Waymo Pull Its Autonomous Cars from Downtown LA?
After law enforcement confirmed that “multiple autonomous vehicles” were set on fire as rioters clashed with authorities, Waymo promptly withdrew its vehicles from the volatile downtown area. The company’s spokesperson emphasized that the withdrawal was to protect riders, employees, and property as violence flared.
Waymo maintains active communication with law enforcement and states its commitment to public safety, a position the company has echoed in previous incidents. Readers can learn more about Waymo’s approach to safety at waymo.com.
What Sparked the Anti-ICE Riots?
The violence ignited after a series of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeted several Los Angeles communities. Protesters—many waving signs and American flags—demanded an end to deportations under the Trump administration.
By Sunday night, crowds swelled outside federal buildings. The situation escalated rapidly as individuals split into groups, damaging property, smashing windows at LAPD headquarters, and torching autonomous vehicles in dramatic protest.
How Are Local Leaders Responding?
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed deep sorrow over the scenes of vandalism, describing extensive graffiti and property damage through central LA neighborhoods. The mayor condemned the violence but called for calm and dialogue.
Governor Gavin Newsom, meanwhile, publicly criticized the deployment of thousands of National Guard troops, asserting that federal intervention only fueled tensions between protesters and authorities. On social media, Newsom demanded control over National Guard resources in the county.
For more on evolving discussions about local governance, see california.gov.
How Is This Impacting Businesses and Residents?
Downtown businesses faced a harrowing night, with widespread looting and vandalism reported. The LAPD urged all downtown residents and business owners to stay vigilant, report suspicious activity, and cooperate with authorities as disruptions continued into Monday.
Law enforcement remains on high alert, utilizing drones and real-time data feeds to track criminal activity and direct officers to hot spots. The LAPD continues to post critical updates at lapdonline.org.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Autonomous Cars in LA?
This unprecedented setback raises serious questions about the safety and resilience of urban autonomous vehicle networks. Experts warn that, unless civil unrest can be managed, companies like Waymo and other innovators—such as Tesla—might rethink their deployment strategies in large metropolitan areas.
Security enhancements, smarter routing, and real-time withdrawal mechanisms may become crucial components in future driverless fleets.
How Should LA Residents and Visitors React?
If you’re in downtown LA:
– Avoid protest areas and follow all police advisories.
– Use alternate transportation methods while autonomous services are paused.
– Document and report any suspicious or criminal activity to local authorities.
– Stay informed via city and police official updates.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed—Be the First to Know
- Monitor reliable news sources like CNN and FOX News for breaking updates.
- Follow @LAPDHQ and @Waymo on X for real-time information.
- Protect your property and know your rights in situations involving public demonstrations.
- Sign up for community alerts through the City of LA’s emergency portal.
Downtown LA faces a crossroads—will smart technology and public resolve turn chaos into opportunity? Stay tuned for the latest updates and stand ready with these steps:
Action Checklist:
- Stay alert for traffic and transit service updates
- Monitor city and police social feeds for safety advisories
- Help keep neighborhoods safe by reporting incidents promptly
- Encourage calm and responsible civic engagement in your community
