A disturbing video has surfaced showing an LAPD officer firing a rubber bullet at a peaceful protester — allegedly moments after the individual simply asked for the officer’s name.
The protest, held in downtown Los Angeles, had been largely nonviolent, with demonstrators chanting and holding signs. The situation escalated when one protester, whose hands were visibly empty and raised, approached a group of officers and asked, “What’s your name, sir?”
Without verbal warning or visible provocation, an officer raised his weapon and discharged a round, striking the protester in the chest. Bystanders can be heard shouting in shock as the victim fell backward.
The LAPD has not yet released an official statement, but the footage has sparked renewed criticism over the department’s use of force during peaceful demonstrations. Civil rights advocates are calling for an internal investigation and the immediate suspension of the officer involved.