LA Protests: Waymo Robotaxis and Lime Scooters Set on Fire

Recent Unrest in Los Angeles Targets Waymo Robotaxis and Lime Scooters

This article was initially published on June 9th at 6:43 a.m. PT and has been updated with the latest information released by Waymo.

A wave of disturbances in downtown Los Angeles this weekend resulted in the arson of multiple Waymo robotaxis and Lime electric scooters. These incidents were connected to demonstrations protesting immigration enforcement actions carried out by the Trump administration within the city.

Vandalism of Waymo Vehicles

According to reports from the Los Angeles Times, a group of protesters targeted five Waymo autonomous vehicles on Los Angeles Street on Sunday evening. The vehicles sustained damage including slashed tires, broken windows, and graffiti with anti-ICE slogans. The cars were subsequently set ablaze.

Notably, the Waymo vehicles began sounding their horns simultaneously, creating a coordinated and disruptive noise, as described by the LA Times.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has highlighted the dangers associated with igniting lithium-ion batteries, such as those found in electric scooters and vehicles, due to the release of hazardous gases like hydrogen fluoride.

Inclusion of Lime Scooters in the Damage

Reports indicate that several Lime e-scooters were thrown into the burning remains of Waymo’s Jaguar I-Pace vehicles.

Motives and Prior Incidents

The reason for the attacks on the Waymo vehicles remains unclear. However, law enforcement agencies have previously requested and utilized footage from robotaxi companies to aid criminal investigations. For example, in April, 404 Media reported the LAPD released video obtained from a Waymo vehicle during a hit-and-run investigation.

Lime has not yet issued a statement in response to requests for comment.

Waymo's Response and Legal Action

Waymo has confirmed communication with the LAPD and stated its intention to pursue criminal charges and seek compensation for damages caused by the vandalism of its robotaxis in Los Angeles. The company has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the provision of camera footage to authorities for identifying protesters.

Service Suspension and Vehicle Removal

Social media posts suggest that Waymo has temporarily removed its vehicles from Los Angeles and suspended its service. Confirmation regarding this has been sought from Waymo.

History of Vandalism

Since the launch of Waymo’s self-driving ride-hailing service in Los Angeles in November 2024, its vehicles have been subjected to multiple acts of vandalism, not only in Los Angeles but also in other operational cities. In July 2024, an individual in the Bay Area was charged with damaging 17 Waymo vehicles in San Francisco over a three-day period.

Context of the Protests

The protests in Los Angeles commenced on June 6th as a reaction to a series of aggressive ICE raids throughout the city, resulting in the arrest of over 100 immigrants. The demonstrations, encompassing both peaceful and violent elements, extended to Paramount and Compton over the weekend, causing disruptions to major freeway traffic.

Federal and State Responses

President Trump responded by federalizing the California National Guard and deploying up to 300 soldiers to Los Angeles. This action was met with opposition from state and city officials, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, who formally requested the withdrawal of National Guard troops, citing a violation of state sovereignty.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated a preparedness to mobilize the Marines should the violence persist.

Allegations of Police Conduct

Online videos have emerged depicting LAPD officers using batons and rubber bullets against anti-ICE protesters, and, in some instances, against members of the press.