The demonstration started as a peaceful protest, but then some protesters tore apart property and confronted the police
Protesters block a street leading to Highway 110 to protest the death of George Floyd in Los Angeles.
Photo:
MARK RALSTON / AFP / Getty Images
Two policemen were injured after clashes with protesters who marched through downtown Los Angeles on Friday night protesting the death of George Floyd and against police abuse
The demonstration started as a mostly peaceful protest, but escalated around 7 p.m. with some protesters tearing up property and confronting the police.
#BREAKING: LAPD has declared an unlawful assembly in downtown Los Angeles from the 10 Freeway to the 101 and the 110 Freeway to Alameda https://t.co/Nt0vhmxVns
– CBS Los Angeles (@CBSLA) May 30, 2020
Protesters walked the streets singing "I can't breathe" and entered Highway 110, paralyzing traffic.
Some protesters began to sit on Highway 110 north near 6th streets. and 7th.
The California Highway Patrol closed lanes south, but traffic was not moving in either direction on the highway.
Tear gas and flares were deployed after a dispute between officers and protesters.
#BREAKING: LAPD clears protesters from 110 Freeway with use of tear gas, bean bag rounds https://t.co/Nt0vhmxVns pic.twitter.com/Wag62gti8w
– CBS Los Angeles (@CBSLA) May 30, 2020
One of the injured officers suffered a broken hand and another suffered minor injuries, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
Los Angeles police are asking residents to stay in their homes and all downtown businesses to close due to the protests.
We have declared an unlawful assembly throughout Downtown LA.
From the 10 Fwy to the 101 & the 110 Fwy to Alameda — This is being made following repeated acts of violence & property damage. Residents should stay inside — Business should close — Those on the street are to leave the area– LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) May 30, 2020
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti also called for respecting the right to protest, but indicated that violence and vandalism harm us all:
I believe in our city. THE. is strong enough to stand for justice and walk in love.
We respect every Angeleno's right to protest, but violence and vandalism hurts all.
Let's remember why we march, protect each other, and bring a peaceful end to a painful night.
– MayorOfLA (@MayorOfLA) May 30, 2020
