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Waymo Suspends Downtown LA Service After Robotaxis Torched in Protests

Entering a fifth day, demonstrations over ICE raids prompted safety warnings about toxic fumes after robotaxis were torched.

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A row of Waymo vehicles burn on a street during an anti-ICE protest in downtown Los Angeles, California, on June 8, 2025.
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Overview

  • Protests began on June 6 against ICE immigration raids and intensified on June 8 when President Trump deployed over 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles
  • At least five Waymo self-driving Jaguar I-Pace vehicles had tires slashed, windows smashed and three were set ablaze during Sunday’s unrest
  • The Los Angeles Police Department warned that burning lithium-ion batteries release toxic gases such as hydrogen fluoride, posing risks to first responders and bystanders
  • Waymo removed its fleet from downtown Los Angeles and paused service in the affected area until local authorities deem conditions safe
  • California Governor Gavin Newsom has called the National Guard deployment unlawful and filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration