Autonomous Cars Caught in the Crossfire

The streets of downtown Los Angeles witnessed an unusual sight on June 8, 2025. Several Waymo self-driving cars were left in flames, caught in the middle of intense protests against immigration policies. This incident raised questions about the safety and vulnerability of autonomous vehicles in chaotic situations. The protests, which started on Friday, were a response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in the city and nearby areas. Most demonstrations remained peaceful, but tensions escalated over the weekend. Police and protesters clashed near the Metropolitan Detention Center, leading to a heightened state of unrest. The situation became so volatile that the California National Guard was called in, following an order from President Donald Trump to deploy 2, 000 troops. Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans to challenge this move legally, accusing the federal government of overstepping its authority. Waymo, a company owned by Alphabet, confirmed that five of its vehicles were damaged in the protests. The company had to suspend its services in the affected area until it was safe to resume operations. Waymo's response was coordinated with the Los Angeles Police Department, highlighting the need for collaboration between tech companies and law enforcement in times of crisis. Photos from the scene showed a line of Waymo cars burning, with anti-ICE messages scrawled on their surfaces. It is unclear whether the vehicles were specifically targeted or caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Some eyewitnesses reported seeing Lime e-scooters being thrown into the flames, adding to the chaos. This incident underscores the potential risks that autonomous vehicles face in unpredictable environments. As self-driving technology becomes more prevalent, it will be crucial to develop strategies for protecting these vehicles and ensuring public safety. The protests in Los Angeles serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between technology and social issues. As autonomous vehicles become more common, they will inevitably encounter situations beyond their programming. It is essential for companies like Waymo to be prepared for such events and work closely with local authorities to mitigate risks. The future of self-driving cars depends on their ability to navigate not just roads, but also the unpredictable nature of human behavior.