A U-Haul truck drove through a crowd of protesters during an anti-Iranian regime demonstration in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The protest, attended by several thousand people, was held in solidarity with ongoing demonstrations in Iran against the Islamic government.

Driver and Vehicle Details:
The driver, identified as Calor Madanescht, 48, was detained by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and is under investigation for possible assault with a deadly weapon, using the vehicle. The truck displayed a banner reading: “No Shah. No Regime. USA: Don’t Repeat 1953. No Mullah,” referencing the U.S.-backed 1953 coup that overthrew Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh.

Injuries and Aftermath:

• One person was hit by the truck and two others were evaluated at the scene; no serious injuries were reported.

• After the truck stopped, protesters attacked the driver, breaking windows and attempting to pull him from the vehicle. Police intervened to protect him.

• The FBI joined LAPD in investigating the incident to determine the driver’s motive.

Driver’s Statement:
Madanescht claimed he did not intend to harm anyone, saying he feared for his life and that some protesters helped clear a path for him to escape. He stated, “All I want is peace and human rights for everyone in Iran.”

The event unfolded amid heightened tensions over Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests, with human rights groups reporting hundreds of deaths. Los Angeles is home to the largest Iranian diaspora community outside Iran, making the region a focal point for such demonstrations.