Officers fire projectiles at Lakers fans after being attacked

One of the most dramatic clashes between Los Angeles police officers and unruly Lakers fans occurred at Figueroa Street and Venice Boulevard, prompting police to fire less-than-lethal rounds.

The officers arrived as revelers tried to overturn a city parking enforcement vehicle. The officers raised their rifles and fired the less-than-lethal rounds toward the crowd, some of whom had set fire to several orange cones.

On the LAPD's tactical frequency, officers at the intersection were heard requesting permission to fire  projectiles at a group of men throwing chunks of concrete at them. The permission was granted.

It's unclear whether any officers or fans were hurt.

Witnesses said fans threw bottles at police officers and set several small fires in the area.

A few blocks away, crowds had broken display windows at several local businesses.

At least nine people were arrested, but that number is expected to grow.

--Sam Allen and Joel Rubin

Comments

[animals everywhere]

hope those "fans-aka CRIMINALS" were hurt.

[kuruc]

who are they? the 18th street gangs and salvatruchas. i don't believe they are fans.

[Rick]

The people out doing this destroying property and setting fires aren't real Laker fans. They are nothing but a pack of knuckleheads and criminals. I hope those less than lethal rounds leave them in pain. I don't know why they feel the need to go out and break windows and set things on fire.

[SeeJae]

LAPD commanders, hopefully next time instead of politically heavy deployment at Staples center. You spread some of your personnel away from Staples and protect the surrounding property. Bet you wouldn't see those fans in ARIZONA! Just saying. Overall good job LAPD. Use gas next time.

[WHOCARES]

Now lets have a parade for them. Bad call Tony V.

[SoCalGal]

This story was objectively reported. Kudos to The Los Angeles Times.