A protester in downtown Los Angeles threw objects at federal agents early Saturday morning before turning toward offices and brandishing a gun as they sought to detain him, prompting agents to fire pepper balls as the suspect fled on foot, authorities said.
The encounter unfolded in the Civic Center area along Alameda Street between Aliso and Temple streets, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. The area has been a hotbed of political activity over the last year, as protests against President Trump’s policies and U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement actions have frequently devolved into riots and violent clashes with police.
Police said the suspect turned toward the agents during the encounter and displayed a gun. Agents responded by firing pepper-ball munitions, but the suspect escaped and remained at large as of Saturday afternoon.
No injuries were reported, and police did not immediately release a description of the suspect or the firearm. Authorities said the investigation was ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement.
The incident comes after protests erupted last week across Los Angeles, leading to dozens of arrests.
What began as a raucous protest on Jan. 30 quickly escalated into confrontations between demonstrators and police in riot gear, as anti-ICE protestors engaged in a standoff with officers outside the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building.
Jose Guillen, 27, was arrested after he allegedly used a slingshot to fire metal projectiles at LAPD officers as they attempted to disperse the crowds and open up street intersections.
Prosecutors charged Guillen with two felony counts, including assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer and one felony count of vandalism causing damage in excess of $400, according to court records.
Court filings say that in addition to assaulting two officers, Guillen also smashed an LAPD patrol car windshield during the riot. His bail was listed at $150,000 and he was released on his own recognizance before being due in court Feb. 18.