Waymo Self-Driving Cars Torched During L.A. Protests: Were They the Target?

Amidst protests in Los Angeles, several Waymo self-driving cars were set ablaze, raising questions about whether the vehicles were specifically targeted. The incidents have sparked discussion around the safety of autonomous vehicles and the unique challenges posed by electric vehicle fires. Let’s delve into what happened and what experts are saying.

How Many Waymo Vehicles Were Damaged?

Reports indicate that at least five Waymo robotaxis were set on fire during immigration protests in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Demonstrators reportedly smashed windows and spray-painted anti-ICE and anti-Trump slogans on the Jaguar I-PACE electric SUVs before setting some alight.

The burning vehicles, with a base sticker price of around $73,000, sent plumes of thick black smoke into the air, capturing significant media attention.

waymo’s Response To The Incidents

Waymo has temporarily suspended its service in the affected area of downtown Los Angeles. A Waymo spokesperson stated that the company removed its vehicles from downtown Los Angeles “out of an abundance of caution.”

The company continues to operate in other parts of Los Angeles, covering 500 square miles, and is coordinating with the Los Angeles Police Department. Waymo is also limiting trips in certain areas of San Francisco were protests are anticipated.

Waymo’s Expanding Presence In U.S. Cities

Waymo vehicles are currently available in Austin, Phoenix, Los Angeles, parts of Silicon Valley and San Francisco. The company plans to expand to Atlanta, miami, and Washington D.C. in 2026. In April 2025, Waymo also announced its first international venture, beginning testing in Tokyo.

Did You Know? Waymo provides over 250,000 rides per week in its driverless robotaxis.

Were Waymo Vehicles Specifically Targeted By protesters?

The motives behind the attacks remain unclear. It’s uncertain whether the Waymo vehicles were deliberately targeted or simply caught in the chaos of the protests.

The cars appeared to be empty at the time of the incidents, ensuring no passengers were at risk. Some online have speculated that protesters might have requested Waymo rides to specific locations to set them on fire, while others suggest the vehicles may have been targeted due to their cameras, which could potentially be used to identify protesters.

In areas where Waymo operates, the driverless cars are common sights, navigating city streets to pick up passengers. Their cautious driving behavior, prioritizing safety over assertiveness, might make them easier targets in volatile situations.

The Unique Challenges Of Electric Vehicle Fires

Electric vehicle (EV) fires present distinct challenges compared to those involving gasoline-powered cars. EV battery fires can burn more intensely and release different types of hazardous materials.

If an electric vehicle’s battery is damaged,it can lead to a short circuit,causing the battery to overheat and potentially ignite in a process called “thermal runaway.” This can result in the release of flammable gases and a chain reaction of burning cells.

Health Hazards Associated with Burning Vehicles

Burning vehicles, especially EVs, pose health hazards due to the release of toxic gases and particles.According to Dr. Alberto Caban-Martinez, deputy director of the Sylvester Firefighter Cancer Initiative at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, EV fires can release gases such as hydrogen fluoride, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and metal-based particulates.

These emissions differ from those produced by gasoline combustion, which primarily include carbon monoxide, benzene, and other hydrocarbons. Firefighters and bystanders are particularly at risk due to the inhalation of these toxic byproducts.

Specialized Firefighting Techniques For Electric Vehicle Fires

Extinguishing electric vehicle fires requires specialized techniques. Unlike gasoline fires, EV battery fires cannot be extinguished with conventional firefighting foam as the battery is self-sustaining and does not require oxygen to burn.

Instead, the battery must be cooled to stop the fire and end thermal runaway. Firefighters frequently enough use special “pancake nozzles” or other methods to spray water directly on the battery box. Many evs are equipped with “cut loops” that allow first responders to safely disconnect the high-voltage system.

Pro Tip: Always ensure that firefighters are trained on EV-specific techniques and have the appropriate tools to handle these fires safely.

Comparing Fire Risks: EV vs. Gasoline Vehicles