Los Angeles, June 11 (The Voice News) — A wave of looting swept through downtown Los Angeles late Tuesday night, with major retail outlets including Apple and Adidas among the businesses vandalized and robbed during a fresh outbreak of unrest.
Videos shared on social media showed large groups of masked individuals smashing windows and forcing entry into the Apple Store. Looters were seen carrying out electronics and accessories before fleeing the scene.
Nearby, the Adidas flagship store was similarly attacked, with shelves emptied and significant damage caused to the storefront. Other retail outlets in the area, including smaller clothing and electronics shops, were also targeted during the night of chaos.
The looting followed hours of tense demonstrations sparked by growing tensions over economic inequality and a recent series of controversial police actions. Authorities had earlier declared an unlawful assembly, but the situation quickly spiraled out of control as law enforcement struggled to contain the rapidly moving crowds.
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officials reported multiple arrests but have yet to release a full account of the extent of the damage or the value of stolen merchandise.
City officials condemned the violence and pledged a swift response. “This is unacceptable criminal behavior that undermines the right to peaceful protest,” said Mayor Karen Bass in a statement early Wednesday morning. “We will hold those responsible accountable.”
Businesses across downtown LA are now assessing damage and preparing for further potential unrest, as officials brace for another night of demonstrations.