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The California National Guard has been deployed across parts of Los Angeles following days of civil unrest sparked by the death of an unarmed Black man during a police encounter in South Central Los Angeles. The deployment, ordered by Governor Elena Brooks late Tuesday, comes in response to escalating violence, looting, and widespread property damage that began over the weekend.
Incident That Sparked the Unrest
The unrest began Saturday evening after footage emerged of LAPD officers detaining 27-year-old Jamal Henderson during a routine traffic stop near Crenshaw Boulevard and 48th Street. The video, captured by a bystander, shows officers using force to subdue Henderson, who later died at the scene. Authorities confirmed he was unarmed.
Within hours, protests formed in the surrounding neighborhoods, demanding accountability and calling for police reform. Demonstrations quickly spread across the city, with large crowds gathering in Downtown LA, Hollywood, and South Los Angeles.
Escalation and Citywide Impact
By Sunday night, the demonstrations had escalated. Protesters clashed with police in the Fairfax District and along Hollywood Boulevard. Businesses were vandalized, windows were smashed, and several fires were reported. LAPD vehicles were damaged, and dozens of arrests were made for alleged looting and curfew violations.
As of Wednesday morning, at least 124 people have been arrested. City officials reported 17 structure fires and more than 40 businesses damaged or looted. LA Unified School District closed several campuses in high-impact zones, citing safety concerns for staff and students. Traffic has been rerouted in parts of Downtown and South LA, and Metro rail service remains limited.
National Guard Deployment
In response, Governor Brooks authorized the deployment of approximately 2,000 California National Guard troops. Units were mobilized from installations in San Diego, Riverside, and Ventura. Troops are stationed at key locations including City Hall, police precincts, and critical infrastructure sites.
“The deployment is a precautionary measure aimed at restoring order and protecting public safety,” Governor Brooks said during a press briefing. “We will not tolerate violence against our communities or law enforcement.”
According to state officials, the National Guard is serving in a support role and is not authorized to engage in crowd control unless requested by local agencies. Troops are unarmed and are working alongside LAPD to deter looting and maintain curfew compliance.
Reactions from Officials and Resident
Mayor David Herrera addressed the city Tuesday night, calling for calm and pledging a full investigation into Henderson’s death. “We hear the demands for justice, and we are taking them seriously,” he said. “An independent civilian review board will examine the officers’ conduct.”
LAPD Chief Marisol Vega stated that the officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of internal and external investigations. “We understand the deep frustration in our communities. We are committed to transparency and due process,” she said.
Community members have expressed mixed reactions. “People are tired, and they’re demanding change,” said Malcolm James, a business owner in South LA. “But destroying property doesn’t solve anything. We need leadership, not more force.”
A citywide curfew remains in place from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through the end of the week. Essential workers and emergency services are exempt. The Governor’s Office indicated that troop presence will be reassessed daily based on conditions on the ground.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office confirmed it has opened a preliminary review of the Henderson case. The U.S. Department of Justice is also monitoring the situation.
City agencies are working with community organizations to facilitate peaceful protest zones and provide support services to affected neighborhoods. Local businesses damaged in the unrest may be eligible for emergency recovery grants.
The coming days will likely determine the duration of military support in the city. Officials continue to urge calm and encourage residents to report suspicious activity and comply with curfew orders.
“We will get through this moment,” said Governor Brooks. “But it requires cooperation, dialogue, and a commitment to justice.”
