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Teen Photographer Blinded After Being Shot at “No Kings” Protest in Los Angeles, Attorney Says
Apr
An 18-year-old college student was allegedly left permanently blinded after being struck by a projectile during a protest in Los Angeles, according to his attorney.
USC Student Injured While Photographing Protest
Tucker Collins, a freshman at the University of Southern California, attended the “No Kings” rally on March 28 to photograph the event.
His attorney, V. James DeSimone, said Collins was struck in the eye by what appeared to be a less-lethal projectile containing chemical irritants, allegedly fired by a Department of Homeland Security agent.
Collins was later transported for medical care and ultimately had to undergo surgery to remove his right eye.
Attorney Alleges Excessive Use of Force
DeSimone claims Collins was not participating in violence but documenting the protest as a photographer.
“Instead of targeting people who were throwing objects, they were targeting someone who was documenting the event,” he said.
The attorney also stated that this is not an isolated incident, alleging multiple similar injuries involving federal agents in recent protests.
Homeland Security Responds
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said that approximately 1,000 protesters surrounded the Roybal Federal Building during the demonstration.
According to the agency:
- Protesters allegedly threw rocks, bottles, and other objects
- Officers issued multiple warnings before using crowd control measures
- Force used was described as “appropriate and constitutional”
The statement emphasized that while the First Amendment protects peaceful protest, it does not protect violent actions.
Legal Action Expected
DeSimone confirmed plans to file a federal civil rights lawsuit on behalf of Collins.
The lawsuit is expected to argue that the officer acted with reckless disregard for Collins’ rights, particularly given that he was not posing an immediate threat.
The attorney also pointed to existing legal restrictions that limit the use of less-lethal weapons, including prohibitions against targeting the head, neck, or torso except in extreme situations.
Broader Concerns Over Crowd Control Tactics
The incident has raised renewed concerns about the use of so-called less-lethal weapons during protests.
According to DeSimone, such weapons can still cause severe injuries:
- Eye loss
- Skull fractures
- Brain injuries
He argued that these tools are being used improperly in crowd control situations.
A Developing Case
Collins is currently recovering and has not spoken publicly due to his condition.
As legal proceedings begin, the case is likely to draw national attention, particularly amid ongoing debates about press freedom, protest rights, and law enforcement practices in the United States.
