9News Reporter Struck by Rubber Bullet During Live Broadcast in LA Police Crossfire
Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi, a correspondent for 9News (here), was hit by a rubber bullet while reporting live from a protest scene in Los Angeles, in a moment that was captured on camera and quickly went viral across social media platforms.
9News Reporter Rubber Bullet
The incident occurred during a chaotic segment covering civil unrest in downtown LA, where clashes had intensified between demonstrators and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Tomasi was standing just outside the protest perimeter, delivering a live update for Australian audiences, when law enforcement began firing crowd-control munitions in her vicinity.
9News Reporter Hit
Mid-report, a sudden burst of shouting and movement broke out behind her. Within seconds, a rubber bullet struck her — the moment clearly visible in the broadcast footage. Tomasi flinched, stumbled briefly, and instinctively turned from the direction of fire. Remaining composed despite the shock, she quickly reassured viewers and her crew, saying, “I’m good, I’m good,” as the feed continued.
9News Reporter Shot
The clip was widely shared on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok, drawing a wave of concern and criticism. Viewers praised Tomasi’s professionalism while questioning the LAPD. Many noted that she was clearly marked as press, raising concerns about press freedom and safety in high-risk zones.
9News later confirmed that Tomasi was not seriously injured and continued reporting from the scene shortly after. The network issued a statement supporting its journalist and calling for better protections for media personnel in conflict zones — even within democratic nations.
The moment has become a powerful snapshot of the risks frontline journalists face, especially as public demonstrations grow more volatile and press access becomes increasingly fraught with danger.
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Published by HOLR Magazine
Image Credit: @9news TikTok