Violent Anti-ICE Rioters Clash with Police, Vandalize News Van in Los Angeles

Rioters surrounded a news photographer, smashed the van's window, and attempted to steal the vehicle.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 7:55pm

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During a clash with police on Saturday, radical left anti-ICE rioters in Los Angeles interfered with news crews and vandalized a news van with graffiti after breaking one of the van's windows. One of the rioters also appeared to try to steal the van.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between anti-ICE protesters and law enforcement in Los Angeles, where such clashes have become increasingly common. It also raises concerns about the safety of journalists covering these volatile situations.

The details

According to reports, the rioters surrounded a local news photographer, smashed the passenger side window of his news van, and then proceeded to graffiti the vehicle. One rioter even attempted to get into the van, though it was not running and did not have the keys inside. The photographer was able to escape unharmed, but the incident was described as a 'very, very scary time' for him.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday during a clash between anti-ICE protesters and police.

The players

Justin O'Brien

A photographer who reports from Fox 11's SkyFOX helicopter and witnessed the incident from the air.

Rhein Amacher

A videographer who provided footage of the protests and clashes to The Gateway Pundit.

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What they’re saying

“I found him at the back of the van loading his equipment, but then somebody came up with a rock, smashed the passenger side window, and then went to the front of the vehicle and started graffitiing it, and then tried to actually get in the vehicle. Luckily, the vehicle was not running or had a key in it.”

— Justin O'Brien, Photographer (Fox 11)

What’s next

Authorities are expected to continue investigating the incident and make additional arrests related to the violent protests.

The takeaway

The clash between anti-ICE protesters and law enforcement in Los Angeles underscores the ongoing tensions and risks faced by journalists covering such volatile situations, highlighting the need for greater protection and safety measures for members of the media.