Key Point Summary – Photographer Shot In LA Riots
- Veteran photojournalist shot in head with rubber bullet
- Incident occurred while filming immigration protest in LA
- Authorities accused of targeting clearly marked press
- Photographer suffered whiplash and a severe bruise
- Marines and National Guard deployed as riots escalate
- Over 100 arrests made during weekend violence
- Lawmakers and media demand accountability for press attack
Chaos Escalates As Journalist Targeted
Violence surged through Los Angeles on Sunday night as protests over immigration raids spiraled out of control. During the chaos, veteran photojournalist Toby Canham took a rubber bullet to the head, fired by California police. He had been filming near the 101 Freeway when the shot hit him.
Wearing his press badge and standing alone, Canham suddenly fell after the impact. His camera recorded the moment as he screamed in pain and collapsed.
The bullet left a massive bruise on his forehead and caused whiplash. He spent the next day in the hospital receiving treatment.
Officer Fired Without Warning
A flashbang exploded near Canham moments before the officer fired. Witnesses confirmed that the photographer remained passive and distant from the crowd.
Police offered no explanation for why the officer fired. Canham stood elevated above the chaos, isolated from the confrontation. The rubber bullet struck seconds after someone else threw a bottle nearby.
The California Highway Patrol avoided questions about the incident. LAPD and the mayor’s office also remained silent.
Marines Sent To Reinforce Troops
Hours after the incident, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth deployed 700 Marines to Los Angeles. They joined 4,000 National Guard members already stationed throughout the city.
President Trump applauded the military buildup. He claimed that without troops, “LA would be burning to the ground.” His words, aired on FOX News, sparked outrage.
The protests erupted after ICE conducted aggressive raids across the city. Demonstrators lit fires, blocked roads, and clashed with police. Officers responded with tear gas, flashbangs, and rubber bullets.
Protesters Slam Police Response
Although Monday avoided Sunday’s worst violence, looting still broke out. Nearly 100 arrests were made over the weekend. Authorities reportedly fired more than 1,000 rubber bullets.
Outrage exploded on social media. Journalists and rights groups condemned the rubber bullet fired at Canham. His viral photo showing the swollen bruise fueled new anger.
Officials Remain Silent
Governor Gavin Newsom declined to speak directly about the photographer’s injury. His office passed media inquiries to local police. That silence stirred more criticism.
Adding to tensions, the twin daughters of a senior city official were arrested during the protests. They now face charges for allegedly assaulting police officers.
Though the Department of Justice has not opened a formal investigation, calls for action continue to grow.
A Dangerous Climate For Reporters
Toby Canham is not alone. Another journalist—this one from Australia—also got hit by a rubber bullet that same day while broadcasting live.
As protests spread nationwide, concern for journalists increases. Media groups now demand stronger legal protections and consequences for excessive police force.
New protests are already planned for this week. Authorities anticipate more confrontations, especially with a larger military presence.
Unrest Shows No Sign Of Easing
Los Angeles remains tense. What began as backlash over immigration policy has grown into widespread anger over police conduct and federal intervention.
Troops wait in the streets, while demonstrators keep returning. Many believe the next clash is only hours away.
Public trust continues to erode. Every injury, arrest, or viral video inflames tensions. Calls for justice now echo alongside demands for accountability and change.
This week will be crucial. The city’s future—whether calm returns or violence escalates—depends on the decisions made now by officials, police, and protesters alike.
