Portland descended into chaos again as masked rioters targeted the city’s federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in a late-night siege that left multiple federal officers injured and parts of the facility damaged. Law enforcement described the event as a “coordinated and deliberate assault.”
Crowds wearing black clothing, helmets, and respirators surrounded the building under cover of darkness. The group deployed fireworks, smoke bombs, and rocks while attempting to force entry into the building. Some carried makeshift shields, while others used lasers to blind officers positioned on the rooftop.
Federal agents responded with flashbangs and tear gas, eventually pushing the group back. At least five individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes, including assaulting law enforcement officers. Four agents were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Homeland Security officials condemned the violence and said ICE operations would not be halted by “mob tactics or street-level insurrection.” Officials added that surveillance footage and drone recordings will be used to identify additional suspects for prosecution.
Local leaders have been criticized for failing to denounce the violence or offer support to federal officers. The Portland mayor’s office issued a brief statement acknowledging the “disturbance” but made no mention of law enforcement casualties or property damage.
The attack on the ICE building is the latest in a growing pattern of violent protests across the West Coast, particularly in cities with ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement. Officials warned that federal buildings remain on high alert and more tactical deployments may be made in the coming days.
Bottom line:
This was not a protest—it was an orchestrated attack on federal personnel. As DHS ramps up investigations and prosecutions, the federal government is making clear: anyone targeting its officers will face swift and serious consequences.