by Ten individuals have been federally charged with attempted murder following a violent July 4th assault on the Prairieland ICE Detention Center near Dallas, according to the Department of Justice. Prosecutors say the suspects were part of an organized, armed mob that opened fire on law enforcement and federal agents in what authorities have labeled an “organized attack.”
Why It Matters
- The incident marks one of the most violent attacks on a federal immigration facility in recent years.
- Law enforcement officials say it reflects a broader trend of escalating violence targeting detention centers and police.
- The attack occurred amid heightened national tensions following President Trump’s recent signing of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”
What to Know
- Ten suspects charged: Each faces three counts of attempted murder and three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.
- The accused: Cameron Arnold, Savannah Batten, Nathan Baumann, Zachary Evetts, Joy Gibson, Bradford Morris, Maricela Rueda, Seth Sikes, Elizabeth Soto, and Ines Soto.
- Attack details:
- The assailants wore military-style gear, including tactical vests and body armor.
- They launched fireworks, spray-painted official vehicles, and fired assault rifles.
- A local police officer from Alvarado responding to a 911 call was shot in the neck and later released from the hospital.
- Two unarmed federal agents were fired upon by one suspect who allegedly unloaded 20–30 rounds.
- Staging site: The group allegedly operated from wooded terrain near the facility.
- Evidence recovered:
- Assault rifles, loaded magazines, two-way radios, and spray paint cans.
- Flyers stating “FIGHT ICE TERROR WITH CLASS WAR” and “FREE ALL POLITICAL PRISONERS”.
- A flag reading “RESIST FASCISM – FIGHT OLIGARCHY”.
- Government vehicles were defaced with slogans like “ICE pig” and “traitor“.
What Officials Are Saying
- Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson:
“Make no mistake, this was not a peaceful protest. This increasing trend of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Texas.” - Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche:
“We are closely monitoring the attacks on DHS detention facilities in Prairieland, TX, and Portland, OR, and are coordinating with the U.S. Attorney’s offices and law enforcement partners.”
Related Incident
- On the same day, a clash occurred at the Portland ICE facility in Oregon between demonstrators and federal officers. The unrest followed the signing of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act by President Trump, which has drawn criticism from immigration and civil rights groups.
The Department of Justice has not ruled out additional charges as the investigation into the July 4th attack continues.
