Violence in Liberia

Journalists take shelter in the U.S. Embassy as heavy mortar fire rains on Monrovia.  (Carolyn Cole / LAT)

Civilians prepare to board helicopters for evacuation from the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia.  (Carolyn Cole / LAT)

Civilians, including aid workers, journalists and missionaries, board helicopters at the U.S. Embassy for evacuation as the violence continues to escalate in Liberia.  (Carolyn Cole / LAT)

Civilians board helicopters for evacuation in Monrovia, Liberia.  (Carolyn Cole / LAT)