Eleven individuals face charges in connection with what authorities are calling a “planned ambush” on an ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) facility in Alvarado, Texas. The incident, which occurred on July 4th at the Prairieland Detention Center, approximately 25 miles south of Fort Worth, resulted in an Alvarado police officer being shot in the neck. The officer is expected to survive.
According to law enforcement officials, a group of 10-12 people dressed in black, military-style clothing initiated the attack by shooting fireworks at the facility. This activity, officials believe, was intended to lure ICE detention officers out of the building. Simultaneously, other members of the group vandalized vehicles and spray-painted graffiti, including phrases like “ICE pig” and “traitor.”
Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Nancy Larson, stated that the events “seemed to be designed to draw U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel outside the facility, and it worked.” Two unarmed corrections officers emerged from the detention center to engage with the group. Shortly after, the Alvarado police officer arrived and was shot by an individual positioned in the nearby woods. Another assailant reportedly fired 20 to 30 rounds at the unarmed corrections officers.
Among those arrested, Daniel Rolando Sanchez-Estrada faces charges of conspiracy to tamper with evidence. Reports indicate that Sanchez-Estrada was granted a green card under the Biden administration and was previously a recipient of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals). A criminal complaint alleges that Sanchez-Estrada was observed moving packages containing “anti-government propaganda,” including material titled “Organising for Attack! Insurrectionary Anarchy,” from his residence to his truck.
The investigation is ongoing, and the suspects face serious federal charges, including attempted murder of a federal officer and discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.
Key Points:
- Eleven people charged in connection with an attack on an ICE facility in Alvarado, Texas.
- An Alvarado police officer was shot and injured during the incident.
- The attack involved fireworks, vandalism, and graffiti.
- One suspect had previously been granted a green card under the Biden administration and was a DACA recipient.