Sadia J. Choudhury
September 25, 2025 — A sniper attack at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Dallas early Wednesday left one detainee dead and two others critically injured before the gunman took his own life.
What Happened
At around 6:40 a.m., the attacker opened fire from a rooftop, targeting the ICE building and a van in the sally port where detainees were being transferred. Investigators later recovered bullet casings marked with the words “ANTI-ICE,” suggesting an ideological motive, according to the FBI.
Casualties and Response
Three detainees were struck; one was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other two remain in critical condition. No ICE officers or staff were injured.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem condemned the assault as a “vile anti-ICE attack.” Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons described it as “indiscriminate” and pledged to strengthen security measures across facilities.
Political Fallout
Republican leaders, including former President Donald Trump, quickly blamed left-wing rhetoric for fueling hostility toward ICE. Democrats urged caution against politicizing the incident prematurely, instead focusing on the victims and renewing calls for stronger gun control.
Investigation
Federal authorities are treating the incident as a targeted act of violence. The FBI and Homeland Security investigators are examining the shooter’s background, possible affiliations, and ideological motivations.
