Ten individuals have been arrested and charged with attempted murder following a coordinated attack outside the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, on the night of July 4.
Authorities say the group carried out a “planned ambush” targeting law enforcement and corrections officers.
According to US Attorney Nancy Larson, the suspects wore black military-style clothing and used fireworks to lure Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel outside the facility. Graffiti with phrases such as “traitor” and “ICE pig” was found near the scene, alongside a flag reading “Resist fascism, fight oligarchy.”
Two unarmed corrections officers were the first to respond before an Alvarado police officer arrived and was shot in the neck from a wooded area.
Another shooter, positioned across the street, fired up to 30 rounds at the officers. An AR-style rifle was recovered at the scene, along with body armor and anti-ICE materials.
The wounded officer was treated and released from hospital. Deputies later apprehended seven suspects nearby among whom some were armed, others wore body armor and carried radios. Further searches turned up masks, gloves, weapons, and additional tactical gear.
“This was a premeditated attack with the intent to kill ICE corrections officers,” Larson said during a press briefing. The 10 arrested individuals now face three counts each of attempted murder of a federal officer and discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.
An eleventh person has been charged with obstruction of justice and conspiracy for trying to destroy evidence.
The incident came amid heightened tensions over immigration enforcement policies under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Just days later, another gunman attacked an about 400 miles south Border Patrol facility in McAllen, Texas raising questions about potential links between the two events. Authorities have not confirmed any connection, citing the ongoing investigation.
Enhanced security measures have since been implemented at the Prairieland Detention Center.