Broadview, IL – A congressional candidate was among protesters clashing with federal agents Friday outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility near Chicago, resulting in the use of tear gas and allegations of excessive force. The exhibition stemmed from ongoing tensions surrounding increased ICE activity in the area and a recent fatal shooting involving an immigration officer.
Candidate Kina Abughazaleh told the Associated Press she was thrown to the ground and exposed to tear gas while standing with others blocking a driveway to prevent vehicles from entering the facility. Abughazaleh stated officers dragged away a fellow protester before deploying tear gas and pepper balls,causing burning sensations in her eyes and throat.”Protesters were completely peaceful,” she saeid. “we had no weapons, just signs and songs. We were afraid and angry.”
ICE officials countered that protesters were “rioters” who assaulted law enforcement, slashed car tires, and obstructed the facility’s entrance. Video footage from the evening showed protesters retreating as white smoke filled the air and officers in gas masks emerged from a gate.
The confrontation occurred amid heightened scrutiny of ICE operations in the Chicago area, fueled by activists and local leaders seeking to deter agents and raise awareness following the death of Silverio Villegas gonzalez last week. Authorities stated agents were pursuing Gonzalez, who had a history of reckless driving and had entered the country illegally, when he allegedly evaded arrest and dragged an officer with his vehicle. The officer fired, claiming to fear for his life.
Local police reportedly declined multiple requests for assistance from federal law enforcement during the protest. The Broadview Police Department has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Illinois lt. Gov.Juliana Stratton criticized the actions as part of a broader strategy to intimidate communities. “They want us to be afraid,” Stratton said, referencing the Trump administration.”They want us to just kind of go into our little corners and not do anything. … we’re not going to let that happen.”