Daijiworld Media Network - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, Jan 12: Panic gripped a protest rally in Los Angeles after a man drove a truck into a crowd gathered in support of Iranian protesters, forcing people to scramble out of the way and briefly chase the speeding vehicle in an attempt to stop it, officials said.

The incident occurred during a large demonstration backing Iranians protesting against the country’s clerical establishment. It was not immediately clear if anyone was injured.

The U-Haul truck involved, with its side mirrors shattered, was eventually stopped several blocks away from the scene and surrounded by police vehicles. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the driver was arrested.

The Los Angeles Fire Department said two people were evaluated by paramedics following the incident, but both declined medical treatment.

Hundreds of demonstrators had gathered in Los Angeles to show solidarity with the Iranian people, marking one of the largest anti-government protest events linked to Iran since 2022. The protests initially erupted over soaring inflation before escalating into widespread unrest.

According to officials, the ongoing unrest in Iran has resulted in more than 500 deaths so far.

Police said an investigation into the Los Angeles incident is underway.