Waymo Pulls Driverless Cars from Downtown LA After Protesters Torch Fleet Amid Immigration Raids
Waymo halts its robotaxi service in downtown Los Angeles after multiple self-driving cars are set on fire during weekend protests.
- 6+ Waymo cars torched during weekend protests
- Service suspended in downtown LA as of Monday
- Waymo driverless rides began in LA: Nov 2024
- Self-driving fleet owned by: Alphabet (Google’s parent)
Los Angeles was rocked this weekend as smoke billowed above downtown, marking a dramatic turn for the rise of autonomous vehicles in America’s second-largest city. During intense protests over recent federal immigration raids, several of Waymo’s self-driving taxis became unintentional symbols—this time, as burning casualties. Vivid footage showed flames licking the white frames of at least six Waymo vehicles, while onlookers snapped photos and spray-painted slogans condemning immigration policies and the Trump administration.
By Monday morning, Waymo—the autonomous vehicle division of Alphabet (Alphabet)—announced a temporary halt of its ride-hailing service in the hard-hit central district. The company clarified that driverless cars remain available in other parts of Los Angeles, but, for now, downtown is a no-go. Company representatives cited “an abundance of caution” and an ongoing collaboration with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
Blackened shells of high-tech vehicles became the unexpected flashpoint in a city already split over automation, policing, and the future of transportation.
Why Did Protesters Target Waymo’s Self-Driving Cars?
While it remains unclear why the protesters zeroed in on Waymo vehicles as their main target, the company found itself thrust into the heart of a much larger national debate. Waymo cars, a regular sight in San Francisco and a recent tech marvel on Los Angeles’ streets, suddenly became associated with controversy-many now wondering how tech giants adapt to the social climate in 2025.
Some analysts speculate that the symbolism of driverless cars—automation, Silicon Valley power, and surveillance fears—made them prime targets. Others point to tension over corporations’ perceived ties to government agencies.
What Are the Safety Risks of Burning Electric Robotaxis?
The aftermath of the attacks posed serious risks: as the lithium-ion batteries from the torched robotaxis burned, they released clouds of toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride. Authorities initially chose not to send firefighters into the danger zone, allowing the fires to burn out on their own—a move later clarified by officials as necessary to minimize exposure.
By 7 p.m. Sunday, Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) crews finally extinguished the last of the blazes.
How Is Waymo Responding and What Does It Mean for Riders?
Waymo quickly removed all downtown vehicles from circulation and began working with city officials to assess next steps. The service suspension affects only the downtown core—elsewhere in LA, Waymo still offers its app-based ride-hailing service.
Customers are encouraged to check the official Waymo website for live service updates.
Q&A: What’s Next for Self-Driving Cars in Major US Cities?
Q: Could this incident slow the adoption of robotaxis in other cities?
A: Industry experts believe the attack might cause operators and lawmakers to reexamine security policies, but demand for driverless rides remains high.
Q: Is there a timeline for full service restoration in downtown LA?
A: Waymo has not provided a specific date for resuming downtown trips, noting the situation remains fluid.
Q: What can passengers do if their scheduled ride is affected?
A: Book rides in unaffected LA neighborhoods, or use alternate transportation options like Uber or Lyft in the interim.
How to Stay Safe Around Electric Vehicles During Urban Unrest
– Avoid approaching any damaged or burning vehicles, especially electric ones.
– Monitor local news and police updates for route closures and hazards.
– Know emergency evacuation routes if you live or work downtown.
Stay Alert as LA Navigates the Intersection of Protest and Technology!
- 1. Check Waymo’s service area map before hailing a ride.
- 2. Subscribe to alerts from LAPD and LAFD during major events.
- 3. Stay clear of protest hot spots, especially if EVs are involved.
- 4. Choose alternate transport if downtown routes are off-limits.
- 5. Stay tuned to trusted news sources for developing updates.
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