A vehicle fire erupted during a protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Compton, California, on Saturday, creating a chaotic scene that drew the attention of law enforcement and fire crews. The incident occurred at the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Atlantic Avenue, where a white sedan was seen engulfed in flames, sending thick black smoke into the air.
Witnesses reported that the fire may have started from a smoke grenade placed inside the vehicle, which rapidly ignited and led to the vehicle becoming fully engulfed. As the situation escalated, police and fire crews were dispatched to manage the unfolding chaos. Traffic came to a halt in the area as both protesters and bystanders steered clear of the dangerous scene.
Live feeds from the scene captured the moment when flames began to consume the vehicle, while protesters continued to demonstrate nearby. The protests, which have been ongoing in the Los Angeles area, have drawn attention to immigration policies and the impact of ICE operations in local communities.
As the fire blazed, law enforcement established a perimeter to keep the protesters at a safe distance from the flames. Officers in riot gear were seen maintaining order, while some protesters appeared to celebrate the moment, taking photos with the burning vehicle in the background, including waving the Mexican flag as a symbol of their cause.
In the midst of the unrest, police warned protesters to vacate the vicinity, citing potential use of non-lethal crowd control measures, including chemical agents and rubber bullets, in response to escalating tensions. The situation remained fluid, with officers monitoring the crowd and ensuring that no further incidents occurred.
Authorities have not yet confirmed how the fire started or whether there were any injuries related to the vehicle fire. As the protests continue, the community is advised to avoid the area, particularly around the intersection where the fire took place. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the intense emotions surrounding immigration issues in the United States, as activists voice their concerns over the treatment of immigrants and the policies enforced by ICE.