The image of burning Waymo vehicles became synonymous with the June 2025 Los Angeles protests due to a combination of factors: the vehicles' visibility during the protests, their lack of human drivers, and the symbolic meaning they took on for some protesters. The protests were sparked by immigration raids, and the Waymos, as a symbol of technological advancement and Google (a company seen by some as aligned with the Trump administration), became a target for those expressing their anger and frustration.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Visibility and Lack of a Driver:
Waymo's self-driving cars, readily available in the area, were present during the protests. The lack of a driver made them vulnerable to attack, as there was no one to protect the vehicles or de-escalate the situation when protesters surrounded them, according to NBC News.
Symbolic Target:
Some protesters viewed the Waymo vehicles as a symbol of technological advancement and corporate power, particularly given Google's involvement. For some, they represented a perceived threat to jobs and a future where human drivers are replaced by machines.
Protest Tactics:
Damaging and destroying vehicles is a common tactic in protests, and in this case, the Waymos became a focal point for expressing anger towards the government and its policies.
Viral Images and Videos:
The dramatic images and videos of the burning Waymos quickly circulated online, capturing global attention and solidifying the connection between the protests and the destruction of the vehicles, says USA Today.
Waymo's Response:
Waymo temporarily suspended service in the area and removed vehicles, citing safety concerns. This action further highlighted the impact of the protests on the company's operations and the vulnerability of their autonomous vehicles in such situations
Sponsored by Blackout Coffee
"America's Number 1 choice for favor and Quality" - Non your Woke Type Bullshit
Use Promo: SAVAGED for 20% off your entire order
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang
Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.