California Governor Gavin Newsom has urged federal agencies to withdraw National Guard troops from Los Angeles following the injury of Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi, a U.S. correspondent for 9News, who was struck by a rubber bullet while covering protests in the city.
Tomasi, who was visibly marked as press and standing in a media-designated area at the time, was shot in the leg during a live broadcast. The incident — partially captured on video and now widely circulated — has raised fresh concerns about the safety of journalists amid escalating law enforcement responses to civil unrest.
“It really did hurt... but it comes part and parcel of the job sometimes,” Tomasi said in follow-up coverage.
She described the projectile as “the size of a golf ball”, adding that it left a painful bruise on her calf.
Governor Condemns Unauthorised Deployment
Governor Newsom issued a pointed public statement following the incident, asserting that the deployment had occurred without state coordination, and demanding that federal command “rescind the order.”
“Deploying National Guard personnel without proper orders or adequate training risks escalating the situation in Los Angeles,” Newsom stated.
“California must retain control over civil operations and uphold de-escalation principles.”
His remarks were echoed by legal observers and human rights organisations concerned about the increasing militarisation of domestic protest response.
9News Confirms Journalist Was Targeted Despite Press Markings
In an official statement, 9News said the incident highlighted the risks journalists face in volatile environments, and confirmed that Tomasi and her cameraman were wearing clear press identification when the projectile was fired.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers journalists can face while reporting from the frontlines of protests, underscoring the importance of their role in providing vital information,” a 9News spokesperson said.
Footage reviewed by Underground Media Network shows the pair standing behind a police barrier when uniformed personnel fired rubber projectiles into the crowd. While no serious injuries were reported, Tomasi was treated for a deep contusion and later returned to her reporting duties.
Australian Government Responds
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed it had been in contact with Tomasi and the U.S. authorities, stating:
“All journalists should be able to do their work safely. Australia continues to support media freedom and the protection of journalists worldwide.”
The incident has sparked political responses in Canberra, with Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young calling on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to request an urgent explanation from the U.S. administration.
“Freedom of the press is a pillar of democracy. What happened to Lauren Tomasi is unacceptable and must be addressed through proper diplomatic channels,” Hanson-Young said.
Press Safety Groups Issue Global Warning
The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) and international press watchdogs have condemned the incident as part of a broader trend of hostility toward media during protests.
“Journalists must be able to operate without fear of injury or interference,” said MEAA Federal Media Director Adam Portelli.
“This was a dangerous breakdown in press safety protocols and must not be repeated.”
No Response Yet from U.S. Defense Officials
As of publication, the U.S. Department of Defense and National Guard Bureau have not publicly commented on the incident or Governor Newsom’s demands.
Underground Media Network has submitted formal requests for comment.
Editorial Note
Underground Media Network has verified the authenticity of the footage supplied, confirmed the timeline of events, and submitted the material to legal counsel for review. This article is compliant with MEAA and Australian Press Council editorial standards and does not assert unlawful conduct by any party. All statements attributed to individuals or organisations are drawn from publicly available and verifiable sources.
Content Advisory:
This report includes references to violence against journalists and may be distressing to some readers.
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