Company Overview - Waymo, owned by Alphabet, has suspended its autonomous vehicle service in downtown Los Angeles due to safety concerns amid ongoing protests [2][3] - The company began offering robotaxi rides across over 80 square miles of Los Angeles in 2024, with additional operations in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Austin [5] Incident Details - Several Waymo vehicles were set ablaze during protests against President Trump's immigration policies, with at least five vehicles seen engulfed in flames [4] - The protests were triggered by Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles and surrounding areas, leading to clashes between police and protesters [3] Safety Concerns - The Los Angeles Police Department highlighted the risks associated with burning lithium-ion batteries, which can release toxic gases [4]
Photos show Waymo vehicles on fire during L.A. protests as company cuts service