Australian Journalist Lauren Tomasi Injured During U.S. Immigration Protest, Sparks Global Outcry Over Press Freedom

Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet while covering protests against U.S. immigration raids in downtown Los Angeles on June 9. The incident, which occurred near the Metropolitan Detention Center on East Temple Street, has drawn international attention and condemnation, renewing concerns over press freedom and journalist safety.

Tomasi, a U.S. correspondent for Australia’s Nine News, was reporting live from the protest site when she was hit in the leg by a rubber bullet allegedly fired by a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officer. Witnesses said the officer had a clear line of sight to the journalist before opening fire. Despite being in visible pain, Tomasi quickly assured nearby onlookers, saying, “I’m good,” before resuming her duties.

The protest was part of a wider wave of demonstrations against President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, with tensions escalating between demonstrators and security forces including the LAPD and the National Guard. Authorities declared the area an unlawful assembly zone and instructed media to maintain distance; however, Tomasi was injured while reporting near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office.

Tomasi later took to social media platform X to thank supporters, writing, “Thanks to all for your kind messages & love. I am a little sore right now, but I am okay, and it is important that we keep telling these significant stories!” She also shared a detailed report highlighting the turmoil in Los Angeles that day.

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade released a statement stressing the importance of media freedom and the right of journalists to operate safely. “All journalists should have the ability to work safely,” it said.

Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young condemned the incident as “shocking and unacceptable,” urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to raise the matter directly with President Trump. “The first thing the President must tell our Prime Minister is to stop shooting our journalists!” she said.

The incident comes just one day after British photojournalist Nick Stern was also injured by non-lethal projectiles while covering similar protests in the city. Prime Minister Albanese described Tomasi’s footage as “horrendous,” praised her resilience, and confirmed that concerns had been formally raised with U.S. authorities.

In response, the LAPD has launched an internal investigation into the use of force during the protests.

Tomasi’s experience has become a powerful reminder of the critical—and often dangerous—role journalists play in bearing witness to unfolding events. The attack has triggered a broader global discussion about the protection of media workers and the need for greater accountability when press freedom is threatened.