Los Angeles, CA – January 12, 2026 – A chaotic confrontation unfolded at a large rally supporting Iranian protesters near the Wilshire Federal Building in Westwood on Sunday afternoon, resulting in one injury when a U-Haul truck accelerated into the crowd after demonstrators allegedly tampered with the vehicle.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the incident occurred amid a gathering of up to 3,000 Iranian-American demonstrators protesting against the Iranian regime. Witnesses reported that the truck, which was bearing banners, became the focal point of an altercation. Protesters reportedly confronted the vehicle, removed a sign from it, and struck the truck, prompting the driver to speed up in an attempt to escape.
One adult male protester was injured in the incident and received medical treatment at the scene. No other injuries among the crowd were reported. The driver, who authorities say has no prior criminal record, was himself assaulted by members of the crowd following the collision. He was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and subsequently detained by police on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon.
LAPD officials have emphasized that the event does not appear to be politically motivated or an act of terrorism, despite online speculation linking the truck’s banners to Iranian opposition groups. “At this time, we do not believe this was intentional in terms of targeting the rally for ideological reasons,” said LAPD spokesperson Capt. Maria Gonzalez during a press briefing. “It seems to stem from a heated exchange that escalated quickly.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is assisting in the ongoing investigation to rule out any broader connections or motives. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from the area and interviewing witnesses to piece together the sequence of events. Social media posts from rally attendees have amplified claims of deliberate targeting, but law enforcement has urged the public to avoid jumping to conclusions as the investigation continues.
The rally, organized by local Iranian-American advocacy groups, was part of a series of demonstrations held in solidarity with ongoing protests in Iran against government policies. Participants carried signs and chanted slogans calling for human rights and democratic reforms. Organizers condemned the incident, stating that it disrupted an otherwise peaceful assembly.
The driver has not been publicly identified pending formal charges, and the investigation remains active. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the LAPD Westwood Division.
