USA. Autonomous taxis were set on fire in Los Angeles

From Friday, Los Angeles have been ongoing demonstrations related to the detention of at least 44 immigrants. Set fire to, among others Several of Waymo autonomous taxis in the city. The police warned people to stay away from this area. “Burning lithium -ion faucets release toxic gases, posing a threat” – it was written in a statement.

Autonomous taxis, operating as part of the Alphabet holding, have become the object of protesting attacks. At least five cars were set on fire, as a result of which dense clouds of black smoke floated in the air. According to “La Times”, tires were poured, cars were broken, and slogans against the actions of the Office for immigration and enforcement of customs (ICE) appeared on the body.

According to the journal's report, a man with a mask on his face crashed the car windows with a skateboard. Another used a makeshift fire pmery to set fire to the interior of the car. When the fire was digested, a group of demonstrators also threw Lime scooters to the fire.

Los Angeles police warned people to stay away from the area where electric cars are burning. “Burning lithium -ion batteries release toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, posing a threat to lifeguards and people nearby,” Los Angeles said in a statement.

Protests against ICE activities in Los Angeles

Protests in Los Angeles broke out on Friday after the “raid” of ICE federal agents on a clothing warehouse, during which at least 44 immigrants were arrested.

On Sunday, the White House announced the sending of 2000 members of the National Guard. Three hundred soldiers after this decision were directed to the place of protests. Three police officers were injured during clashes with protesters.

Waymo in Los Angeles

Waymo electric autonomous taxi appeared in Los Angeles in November 2024 and became a common sight, gaining great popularity. Before they became available to anyone who downloaded the application, there were about 300,000 people on the waiting list – the company spokesman informed in January. Cars are a common target of vandals. In January, a group of men devastated one of the autonomous taxis in Beverly Grove. In February 2024, Waymo was set on fire with fireworks in the Chinatown district in San Francisco. In July, a resident of Castro Valley was accused of devastating 17 Waymo in San Francisco within three days.