Two detainees have died and another is critically injured after a rooftop sniper opened fire at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) centre in Dallas, Texas, officials report.
The gunman fired indiscriminately at the ICE facility as well as at a nearby unmarked van, before subsequently dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Notably, no law enforcement personnel were injured in the incident.
FBI Director Kash Patel shared on social media a photo of unused ammunition recovered from the scene, one casing of which prominently bore the phrase 'ANTI-ICE'. This incident marks a continuation of a disturbing trend, with recent months seeing a rise in attacks on ICE facilities aligning with heightened aggressive policies on immigration enforcement.
Patel noted, While the investigation is ongoing, an initial review of the evidence shows an ideological motive behind this attack. He condemned these politically motivated violent actions, emphasizing their unbearable despicability.
At a news conference, special agent Joe Rothrock confirmed that rounds located near the shooter contained messages against ICE. The suspect reportedly opened fire from an adjacent building, targeting both the ICE facility and a van where victims were shot.
Acting ICE Director Joshua Johnson expressed that this was unfortunately a recurring issue for the agency, urging for an end to divisive rhetoric that can provoke such incidents. Comments from Texas Senator Ted Cruz highlighted the consequences of politically charged violence, appealing for civility and discouraging extreme rhetoric.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem labeled the situation a wake-up call, admonishing those who equate ICE with historical atrocities. US Vice-President JD Vance echoed sentiments of support for those affected and called for an end to hostility towards law enforcement.
The Dallas ICE office, which has been the subject of protests, has faced multiple incidents this summer, including threats of violence and other attacks, indicating a broader culture of aggression surrounding immigration enforcement.