CHICAGO - A high-speed chase involving Border Patrol agents led to an arrest Tuesday afternoon on a residential street in Chicago’s South Side, sparking a protest that required federal agents to deploy tear gas.
The incident began during an immigration enforcement operation when a driver, suspected of being in the country illegally, collided with a Border Patrol vehicle before fleeing. Authorities stated that as agents apprehended the driver who attempted to escape on foot, a crowd gathered, prompting law enforcement to use crowd control measures.
Footage from the scene captured dozens of protesters waving flags as federal agents and local police attempted to maintain order. The deployment of tear gas enveloped the street, causing chaos as demonstrators were forced to flee amidst the smoke.
According to the Chicago Police Department, officers received a 911 call about a vehicle accident involving federal authorities around 11 a.m. and reported that some protesters began throwing objects at agents. Thirteen police officers were affected by the tear gas during the confrontation.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker condemned the actions of federal agents, labelling their treatment of peaceful protesters as abominable. He expressed concern over the escalating violence against individuals simply expressing their views. I’ve never seen it like this in the United States of America, he stated.
In recent weeks, federal agents have faced criticism for similar tactics used in other Chicago neighborhoods, including Albany Park and the West Side. Andrew Denton, a local resident, reported being caught in the tear gas while picking up lunch and highlighted the detrimental impact such events have on the community.
Ongoing protests against federal immigration enforcement have become common in Chicago, spurred on by concerns over civil liberties and community safety, particularly around federal immigration facilities in the region.
