Fact Check: "Freelance photographer Michael Nigro was struck in the helmet by a non-lethal bullet fired by a Los Angeles Police Department officer during an anti-ICE rally on October 9, 2023."
What We Know
On October 9, 2023, during an anti-ICE rally in Los Angeles, freelance photographer Michael Nigro was struck in the helmet by a non-lethal bullet fired by an officer of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Nigro reported that the impact felt intentional, suggesting an effort to intimidate journalists covering the protest. He stated, "It felt very very intentional," indicating a concern over the treatment of reporters at such events (NPR). The incident occurred amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions between law enforcement and protesters, with journalists alleging that police have increasingly targeted them during protests (NPR).
Analysis
The claim that Michael Nigro was struck by a non-lethal bullet during the protest is corroborated by multiple sources. The incident was reported by NPR and David Folkenflik, both of which confirm Nigro's account of being hit while documenting the protests. The LAPD has faced criticism for its handling of protests, with allegations that officers do not distinguish between protesters and journalists, leading to dangerous situations for those covering the events (NPR).
The reliability of the sources reporting this incident is high. NPR is a well-respected news organization known for its journalistic standards, and the reports from social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) were made by credible journalists (David Folkenflik, Joshua Collins). However, it is important to note that social media reports can sometimes lack the depth of traditional journalism, which is why corroboration from established news outlets is crucial.
The context of the protests also adds weight to the claim. There have been numerous reports of police using non-lethal munitions against both protesters and journalists, which aligns with Nigro's experience (NPR). This pattern of behavior raises concerns about the treatment of the press during civil unrest and the implications for freedom of the press.
Conclusion
The claim that freelance photographer Michael Nigro was struck in the helmet by a non-lethal bullet fired by a LAPD officer during an anti-ICE rally on October 9, 2023, is True. The incident is well-documented and supported by credible sources, highlighting ongoing issues regarding police interactions with journalists during protests.
