A gunman fired upon a Dallas immigration field office from a nearby roof Wednesday morning, killing two detainees and critically wounding another, before killing himself in what authorities called an indiscriminate attack on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
All three victims were inside a van outside the facility at the time the gunman opened fire, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Authorities found ammunition with anti-ICE messaging at the scene.
This attack marks the latest in a series of public, targeted killings in the U.S., following the recent fatal shooting of conservative leader Charlie Kirk.
Who are the victims?
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed all three victims were detainees, though further information on their identities has not yet been released. No law enforcement officers sustained injuries during the attack.
Who was the shooter?
Reports indicate the shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, but no details about him have been disclosed as of yet.
What was the motive for the attack?
At a morning news conference, the FBI revealed that ammunition found at the scene bore anti-ICE messages. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated the attack was driven by hatred toward ICE. Senator Ted Cruz condemned the violence, declaring it essential for politicians to cease differentiating between ICE and its agents, warning the dangerous rhetoric encourages hostility towards enforcement personnel.
Democratic leaders have cautioned against the narrative being controlled by GOP proponents, emphasizing calls for justice for immigrant victims in light of the attack.
Where did the shooting occur?
The shooting took place at a field office in Dallas where ICE agents process individuals in custody. The location is adjacent to Interstate 35 East and near Dallas Love Field, making it an accessible site amidst a bustling metropolitan area.
What other recent attacks have there been at ICE facilities?
Recent history has seen a troubling uptick in attacks against ICE facilities, including a July 4 incident at a Texas immigration detention center where a police officer was severely injured. Another attack on July 7 witnessed an individual shooting at agents outside a Border Patrol facility in McAllen before being fatally shot by authorities.