Los Angeles City Hall Evacuated After Car Crash, Suspect Detained

Los Angeles City Hall was evacuated on a Friday afternoon after a man drove his vehicle onto the steps and barricaded himself inside, displaying handwritten signs pleading for help and mentioning President Donald Trump. The suspect, who appeared to have an oxygen tank and refused to leave the vehicle initially, demanded to speak with a reporter before eventually exiting and being taken into police custody after a standoff lasting over two hours. Authorities, including the LAPD and bomb squad, responded promptly, closing surrounding streets and freeway off-ramps as a precaution, although no weapons or bombs were found inside the car. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was briefed on the incident and expressed gratitude to first responders, emphasizing the evacuation was done out of an abundance of caution. The situation highlights ongoing security challenges for public institutions amid a tense political climate, with investigations into the suspect's motives ongoing. No injuries were reported during the incident.