Update on Dallas ICE Facility Shooting
Authorities in Dallas, Texas, provided an update regarding the shooting incident at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility that unfolded on Wednesday.
Mayor Eric Johnson began the morning press conference by inviting everyone to pray for the families affected by the tragedy.
As of the latest reports, the shooting resulted in the death of the gunman, who died by self-inflicted gunshot, along with two detainees. A third detainee is currently in critical condition at the hospital.
“It’s a scary time,” Johnson remarked, while commending the police response. “Let’s be patient, let’s be calm.”
Special Agent in Charge Joseph Rothrock from the FBI confirmed that the agency is treating the incident as an act of targeted violence. He noted that this event is unfortunately similar to a coordinated attack that occurred at another immigration detention center in Alvarado, Texas, back on July 4th.
The earlier July incident saw ten suspects charged with attempted murder following a shooting at the Prairieland Detention Facility, where an officer was injured but later recovered.
“Initial evidence from rounds found near the shooter indicates they contained messages against ICE,” Rothrock added.
The FBI Director shared images of unspent bullet cartridges discovered on the scene, marked with the phrase “ANTI-ICE.”
“While we cannot disclose the identities of the victims at this moment, I can assure you that no law enforcement personnel were harmed during this incident,” Rothrock stated while urging the public to provide any relevant information to the FBI.
Acting Director of the Dallas ICE Office, Joshua Johnson, expressed his sorrow that this press conference marks yet another shooting at an ICE facility. He emphasized that the current atmosphere demands an end to harmful rhetoric.
“There are individuals out there influenced by what they see online, leading to violent actions against ICE employees,” Johnson said. “This violence cannot continue, and lives are at stake.”
Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) also spoke during the conference.
“This situation must end. Violence, particularly politically motivated violence, is unacceptable,” Cruz asserted, referencing a recent political assassination that shocked the nation. “This marks the third shooting in Texas aimed at ICE or Customs and Border Protection.”
Cruz urged politicians who use hostile rhetoric against ICE and CBP to reconsider. He highlighted the very real consequences that such language can have.
“We should unite in discussing immigration policies civilly,” Cruz stated. “We must refrain from inciting hatred towards those who risk their lives to protect us.”
In closing, Cruz called for a return to decency in political dialogue.
Rothrock concluded by requesting that the press honor the ongoing investigation and allow time for victims’ families to be informed before any names are released. More information is expected to follow.
