Shooting at ICE Facility Kills One Detainee, Sparks Calls for More Security
The shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Dallas, Texas, was an act of “targeted violence” against ICE, according to federal officials.
The shooter, identified as Joshua Jahn, opened fire from a nearby rooftop. The shooter was firing “indiscriminately at the ICE building, including at a van in the sallyport where the victims were shot.” Three detainees were shot. One was killed and the other two are in critical condition. Jahn shot and killed himself. No ICE employees were hurt in the attack.
Investigators say shell casings found at the scene were inscribed with anti-ICE messages.
“Our prayers are with the families of those killed and our ICE law enforcement. This vile attack was motivated by hatred for ICE,” said Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, who also called for politicians and the media to tone down anti-ICE rhetoric. President Trump himself also blamed the shooting on rhetoric from the left about law enforcement.
DHS says it will immediately increase security at ICE facilities across the country and Secretary Noem says ICE will be hiring more law enforcement officers.
Meanwhile Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson pleaded for people to be patient as the investigation continues.
"Let's remain calm and let our law enforcement partners, our police department do their job," said Mayor Johnson (R). "This is an active investigation. There are still a lot of unanswered questions."
As for that investigation, the FBI says “early evidence” indicates the shooter was anti-ICE in nature due to the writings found in the bullet casings and that Jahn was known to law enforcement.
It’s the third attack against ICE facilities in Texas in recent months.