The southbound 101 Freeway was shut down due to demonstrators damaging vehicles and blocking traffic|US Northern Command
Immigration raids on June 6 in Los Angeles have set off large-scale protests, resulting in clashes, over 60 arrests, and growing conflict between California and federal authorities.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed it detained 118 immigrants last week, triggering demonstrations across LA and nearby cities.
In response, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum Saturday deploying 2,000 National Guard troops, which Governor Gavin Newsom called “unlawful” and “chaotic.”
Clashes intensify in downtown LA
On Sunday, the LAPD declared an unlawful assembly downtown as protesters hurled concrete and bottles at officers.
The southbound 101 Freeway was shut down due to demonstrators damaging vehicles and blocking traffic. Officers deployed tear gas and non-lethal rounds to control the crowd.
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell reported that 60 people were arrested.
Federal backlash and troop mobilization
ICE acting director Todd Lyons claimed 1,000 rioters surrounded a federal building; he blamed the LAPD for delayed action.
Trump posted on Truth Social, urging arrests of masked protesters and calling for military involvement.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said 500 Marines from Camp Pendleton were ready to deploy if violence escalates.
Local leaders push back
Gov. Newsom condemned the deployment as “inflammatory” and requested federal intervention be rescinded.
Rep. Nanette Barragan emphasized that the raids target non-criminals, increasing fear in immigrant communities. She warned ICE may enforce actions for up to 30 days and called for peaceful protests.