US: Protesters rally in Minneapolis and Los Angeles May 27 /update 1

Event

On Wednesday, May 27, hundreds of demonstrators gathered for a second day of protests in Minneapolis (Minnesota state) over the fatal-arrest of George Floyd and the level of police force used against demonstrators in similar protests on Tuesday, May 26. Protesters filled the streets and rallied outside the Minneapolis 3rd Police Precinct, located on 3000 Minnehaha Avenue. According to reports, demonstrators pelted police with rocks, water bottles, and other projectiles and vandalized the police station. Riot police fired tear gas into the crowds and threw concussion grenades in attempts to disperse them. According to some media reports, individuals also looted a store in the area amidst the unrest. Unconfirmed reports on media sources suggest protesters have suffered injuries from riot police firing rubber bullets.

Associated solidarity rallies have been held elsewhere in the country including in Los Angeles (California state). Black Lives Matter (BLM) protesters gathered on Wednesday afternoon (local time) and have blocked roads around Union Station, including the 101 Freeway. Reports suggest that at least one person has been injured.

Further protests, clashes, and associated disruptions are likely in the near term and should be avoided.

Context

George Floyd died while being arrested by Minneapolis police officers on Monday, May 25. The four arresting police officers involved were subsequently fired for their actions. Black Lives Matter (BLM) gathered on May 26 to denounce the fatal-arrest and actions of the police. Clashes ensued between protesters and riot police; demonstrators threw bricks and projectiles at police and police property, while the police responded by firing tear gas and rubber bullets in attempts to disperse them.

Advice

Individuals in Minneapolis and Los Angeles are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.