A vehicle was set ablaze during ongoing anti-ICE protests in Compton, California, on Friday afternoon, igniting tensions between demonstrators and law enforcement. The fire erupted at the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Atlantic Avenue, near a popular local donut shop, Dale’s Donuts. Eyewitnesses reported seeing dark smoke billowing from the vehicle as it caught fire, prompting concerns about safety and the potential for escalating violence at the protest site.
The incident unfolded amidst a larger demonstration against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with protestors expressing their anger over immigration policies. As the vehicle burned, some demonstrators reportedly circled the scene on bicycles, while others took photos in front of the flaming sedan, waving Mexican flags and celebrating the moment.
Authorities were quick to respond, with law enforcement establishing a perimeter around the area to prevent protestors from approaching the fire and other potential hotspots. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department had a significant presence in the vicinity, equipped with riot gear to manage the situation. Officers communicated warnings to protestors, advising them to vacate the area or face possible consequences, including the use of crowd control measures such as rubber bullets and tear gas.
While the scene was chaotic, the firefighters’ response to the vehicle fire was delayed as police worked to secure the area. Eyewitnesses noted that traffic in the busy intersection came to a halt as people steered clear of the flames. The situation remained fluid, with moments of calm interrupted by bursts of activity among the protestors.
As the afternoon progressed, police maintained a barrier to keep demonstrators away from the 710 Freeway, where tensions had previously escalated. The protests, which had been ongoing for much of the day, exhibited a mix of fervent activism and occasional moments of celebration among protesters.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as the protest unfolds. The precise cause of the vehicle fire has yet to be determined, and investigations are likely to follow. Community members are advised to avoid the area as the situation remains unpredictable.