U.S. Border Patrol agents came under fire while conducting immigration enforcement operations in Chicago on Saturday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced. The incident, which DHS described as part of a “growing and dangerous trend of violence,” occurred near 26th Street and Kedzie Avenue.
According to a statement posted by DHS on X, an unknown male driving a black Jeep allegedly fired shots at the federal agents before fleeing the scene. The shooter and vehicle are currently at large, and authorities are treating the situation as “dynamic.”
In addition to the shooting, DHS reported that an unknown number of “agitators” were involved in obstructing the operation. These individuals allegedly threw a paint can and bricks at the Border Patrol vehicles. The Chicago Police Department was called to assist and subsequently cleared the scene.
“This incident is not isolated and reflects a growing and dangerous trend of violence and obstruction,” said DHS.
The agency detailed a recent increase in such incidents targeting federal law enforcement. “Over the past two months, we’ve seen an increase in assaults and obstruction targeting federal law enforcement during operations,” the DHS statement read.
“These confrontations highlight the dangers our agents face daily and the escalating aggression toward law enforcement. The violence must end,” said DHS.
The agents were conducting an immigration enforcement operation when the shooting occurred. As of now, the shooter remains at large.
This story will be updated as more information is released.
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