02 February 2023 , 12:12
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The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Brits heading to the US.
The new warning came as thousands of demonstrators hit the streets in cities across the country following the death of Tyre Nichols.
Simmering tensions boiled over in a number of locations when police released footage showing the circumstances leading up to Tyre’s death earlier this year.
Over the weekend a protester smashed up a police car in New York, while in Los Angeles a firework was shot at a police car during a demonstration.
In Memphis, where Tyre was killed, protesters blocked a bridge on Interstate 55 chanting: "Say his name! Tyre Nichols!"
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Tyre Nichols died on January 10 (Uncredited/AP/REX/Shutterstock)As a result, the FCDO urged those travelling to the country to "be mindful of your surroundings" when near a protest and to move away if there are signs of unrest.
"Protests are commonplace across the US, some of which can become violent," read and FCDO statement.
"Different jurisdictions may introduce curfews or emergency orders – you should follow the guidance and instructions of local authorities."
Protests have broken out across the country (AFP via Getty Images)Mr Nichols, who was dad to a four-year-old boy, was on his way home from taking pictures of the sunset at a local park when he was pulled over by the police officers.
Following the attack he was left propped up against a car for 20 minutes without being given any first aid and died three days later on January 10.
In the footage the 29-year-old can be heard repeatedly calling for his mum as the officers punch, kick and hit him with a baton.
Demonstrators have been marching through New York (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)Afterwards he was left for 20 minutes propped up against a car as the officers milled around talking about the incident.
Court records showed that all five officers — Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills Jr., Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith — have been taken into custody.
The officers involved have all been fired and each face charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.