During mass demonstrations in downtown LA, at least five Waymo robotaxis were graffitied and deliberately torched in public protests—captured and shared widely on social media. Waymo responded by removing its fleet from the protest zones and suspending service in affected areas, citing “an abundance of caution.” The company clarified it doesn’t believe the vehicles were specifically targeted. Authorities have warned that burning lithium‑ion batteries may release toxic fumes, prompting public warnings to avoid the area.
This incident highlights a mounting public backlash at the intersection of technology and civil protest. Waymo's autonomous vehicles—seen by many as extensions of both Silicon Valley’s surveillance infrastructure and government reliance—have become symbolic targets. While Waymo continues operations in other LA regions and has no immediate plans to fully withdraw, the incident may delay broader deployment strategies and phase expansions in cities like San Francisco and Miami