Federal law enforcement faces fireworks, rocks, and forced entry during coordinated anti-ICE attack; DHS vows full prosecution as assaults on officers spike.
Portland, Oregon, June 15:
A violent riot erupted late Saturday night at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Portland, leaving multiple federal officers injured and prompting a firm federal response amid escalating tensions across the country.
According to Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, a large group of demonstrators attacked the ICE building by launching fireworks, throwing rocks, and smoke grenades, smashing glass, and attempting to forcibly breach the premises.
“Portland rioters are violently targeting federal law enforcement, and we won’t sit idly by and watch these cowards,” McLaughlin told Fox News Digital.
“Our officers are facing a 413% increase in assaults as they risk their lives to arrest murderers, rapists, and gang members.”
McLaughlin added that four federal officers were injured during the coordinated assault, though authorities successfully secured the facility before further escalation. Federal law enforcement, including ICE and supporting agencies, has vowed to continue enforcing immigration laws with full resolve.
“Secretary [Kristi] Noem’s message to the rioters is clear: you will not stop us or slow us down… If you lay a hand on a law enforcement officer, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” McLaughlin asserted.
Local Law Enforcement Response
The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) declared the area surrounding the facility an “unlawful assembly” at around 6:30 PM local time, citing escalating violence and danger posed to personnel and the public.
Authorities issued warnings that crowd control measures, including impact munitions and physical force, would be deployed if necessary. Shortly afterward, the situation further intensified when a medical emergency was reported inside the ICE building.
“Please move away from the entrance and do not interfere with Police or medical during the process or force may be used against you,” the PPB wrote in a public advisory via social media.
The bureau’s intervention, alongside federal support, helped de-escalate the immediate threat, but the incident has added fuel to an already volatile national atmosphere surrounding immigration enforcement, police reform, and anti-government protests.
Broader Context of Unrest
The Portland riot comes amid nationwide demonstrations under the “No Kings” banner—mass protests opposing federal overreach, surveillance, and immigration enforcement. While many gatherings remained peaceful, cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York also witnessed clashes, arrests, and acts of vandalism.
State governors across the U.S. issued stern warnings to protesters, advising them not to engage in violence or obstruct law enforcement activities. Some federal facilities have increased security protocols in anticipation of further unrest.