Los Angeles Protests Turn Chaotic as Tear Gas Deployed During Nationwide Demonstrations

Sun Mar 29 2026 21:58:50 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A peaceful rally in Los Angeles escalated into confrontation, where authorities deployed tear gas and made numerous arrests following nationwide protests against President Trump's actions and the war in Iran.

Tear gas was deployed and 74 arrests were made in Los Angeles after a large protest that was part of a global series of 'No Kings' rallies against President Trump's policies and the war in Iran. While most demonstrations remained peaceful, some protesters engaged in violent acts against police. Similar protests were held across the U.S. and internationally. Organizers claimed as many as 8 million people participated in these rallies, which showcased resistance against the Trump administration's policies.

Authorities in Los Angeles deployed tear gas near a federal detention center and arrested dozens after protests erupted during the nationwide 'No Kings' rallies held this weekend against President Donald Trump's actions and the ongoing war in Iran.

According to the Los Angeles police, 74 individuals were taken into custody after ignoring dispersal orders following the rally’s conclusion. One additional person was arrested for allegedly possessing a dagger.

The unrest in Los Angeles was among the few violent incidents in what had largely been a series of peaceful protests across the country. Organizers reported over 3,100 registered events in all 50 states.

As chaos erupted, protesters surrounded the federal complex in downtown Los Angeles, throwing rocks and concrete blocks at law enforcement. Two police officers suffered injuries due to these projectiles and required medical attention.

Andre Andrews Jr., an independent journalist and Navy veteran, reported seeing police deploy tear gas when protesters refused to disperse. Some individuals, equipped with shields and gas masks, retaliated against law enforcement.

“The peaceful protest was good for the cause. You have the right to do that. But others were definitely causing problems,” Andrews stated.

Among those arrested were eight juveniles and a woman dressed as the Statue of Liberty, who was apprehended while smiling and chatting with officers.

Elsewhere, in Denver, police declared an unlawful assembly after protesters blocked a road, leading to arrests. Nationwide, demonstrations reached from major cities like New York to smaller towns in Idaho, with gatherings even occurring in several countries around the world, all focusing on anti-Trump sentiments.

According to estimates, the 'No Kings' rallies amassed over 8 million participants this weekend, marking a significant turnout in the ongoing resistance against Trump's administration.