A vehicle erupted into flames amid escalating anti-ICE protests in Compton, California, today, creating a chaotic scene that left nearby pedestrians and law enforcement on high alert. The incident unfolded at the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Atlantic Avenue, where a white sedan was seen engulfed in thick, dark smoke, sparking immediate concern among protestors and onlookers.
Witnesses reported that the vehicle appeared to emit smoke from a suspected smoke grenade before igniting, prompting fears of a potentially dangerous situation. As flames engulfed the car, police and fire crews were dispatched to the scene, where the atmosphere remained tense with crowds of protestors nearby. Traffic came to a standstill as emergency responders moved in to assess the escalating fire.
The protests, which have been ongoing throughout the day, have seen moments of violence and unrest. Eyewitness accounts described protesters throwing objects at officers, and law enforcement has responded with riot gear and warnings for crowds to disperse. Helicopter footage captured the scene as groups of demonstrators circled the burning vehicle, some posing for photos in front of the flames while others shouted slogans against U.S. immigration enforcement.
Authorities have urged anyone in the vicinity to steer clear of the area as tensions remain high. Police have warned that they are prepared to use crowd control measures, including less-lethal munitions, if the situation escalates further. As the fire raged, the chaotic scenes underscored the ongoing volatility of the protests, drawing a large media presence and raising alarm in the community.
Stay tuned as updates unfold on this developing story, with emergency responders working to contain both the fire and the unrest surrounding it.