USC Student Injured at 'No Kings' Protest in LA

Federal agent's use of force against student photographer raises concerns over press freedoms.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:50am

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An extreme close-up of a shattered camera lens on the ground reflecting a faint red light, conceptually illustrating the violence against a student journalist covering a protest.A student photographer's encounter with federal agents at a protest highlights ongoing tensions over the use of force and press freedoms.Los Angeles Today

A University of Southern California freshman was allegedly shot in the face with a less-lethal projectile by a Department of Homeland Security agent while photographing a recent 'No Kings' protest in downtown Los Angeles, leaving the student with severe eye trauma that required emergency surgery.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and protesters, as well as concerns about the use of force by federal agents against civilians during public demonstrations, especially against members of the press covering these events.

The details

According to reports, the 19-year-old student, whose name has not been released, was taking photographs of the protest when he was struck in the face by what is believed to have been a rubber bullet or similar less-lethal projectile. The student suffered severe eye trauma and had to undergo emergency surgery to save his vision.

  • The 'No Kings' protest took place on April 5, 2026 in downtown Los Angeles.
  • The student was allegedly shot and injured by the Homeland Security agent during the protest on April 5.

The players

University of Southern California

A private research university located in Los Angeles, California.

Department of Homeland Security

A federal executive department of the United States government responsible for public security, including border security, immigration, disaster response, and counterterrorism.

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What they’re saying

“This is a horrific and unacceptable use of force against a student journalist who was simply trying to document a protest.”

— Jamal Abdi, Vice President of Policy, National Iranian American Council

What’s next

The student's family is expected to file a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security over the incident. Authorities have also launched an investigation into the actions of the federal agent involved.

The takeaway

This incident raises serious concerns about the use of force by federal agents against civilians, especially members of the press, during public demonstrations. It underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency around the tactics employed by law enforcement during these events to protect the rights and safety of all participants.