TechCrunch Industry News Waymo robotaxis, Lime e-scooters set ablaze during LA protests
Jun 10, 2025
Recent protests in downtown Los Angeles have resulted in vandalism, including the destruction of Waymo robotaxis and Lime e-scooters. The unrest is tied to demonstrations against immigration raids. The podcast discusses the implications of this turmoil, particularly regarding local law enforcement and the controversial deployment of the National Guard. These events highlight the intersection of technology and social issues in a rapidly changing urban landscape.
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LA Protesters Attack Waymo Cars
- Protesters in downtown Los Angeles attacked multiple Waymo robotaxis and Lime e-scooters amid unrest.
- They slashed tires, broke windows, spray-painted anti-ICE messages, and set three Waymo vehicles on fire.
Toxic Risks from Battery Fires
- Setting fire to lithium-ion batteries in vehicles and scooters releases toxic gases like hydrogen fluoride.
- This poses health risks to bystanders near the fires during the protests.
Robo-Taxi Footage Aids Police Cases
- Police have previously used robo-taxi company footage to investigate crimes.
- In April, LAPD used video from a Waymo driverless car in a hit-and-run case.