Urgent: Shots Fired at CBP Agents in Chicago’s Little Village

BREAKING: Shots were fired at Customs and Border Protection agents in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood this afternoon, intensifying concerns over rising violence against federal law enforcement. The incident occurred around Saturday, November 8, 2023, during an operation aimed at enforcing federal immigration laws as part of Operation Midway Blitz.

Authorities report that an unidentified male driving a black Jeep opened fire on CBP agents near 26th Street and Kedzie Avenue while they were detaining a young woman. The assailant then fled the scene, prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement. No injuries from gunfire were reported, but the situation escalated as some protesters began throwing bricks and a paint can at the agents’ vehicles.

The Department of Homeland Security issued a statement on social media, condemning the violence:

“This incident is not isolated and reflects a growing and dangerous trend of violence and obstruction. Over the past two months, we’ve seen an increase in assaults and obstruction targeting federal law enforcement during operations.”

The post emphasized the escalating aggression toward law enforcement and called for an end to the violence.

As tensions rose, the Chicago Police Department intervened to restore order. Reports indicate that one police officer was struck by a vehicle and taken to a local hospital, although his current condition remains unclear. Meanwhile, CBP agents continued their law enforcement activities in the area, deploying tear gas to create distance from the increasingly hostile crowd.

Community leaders, including Chicago Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez, criticized the CBP’s approach, stating that agents “came out of their vehicles pointing their weapons” during the incident. Protests have erupted in response to the detainment of individuals, with demonstrators using whistles and car horns to alert others about CBP activities.

This incident underscores the heightened tension in Chicago, particularly in sanctuary cities where federal immigration enforcement is often met with resistance. As federal law enforcement continues to search for the driver of the black Jeep, the situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected.

Residents are urged to stay informed and vigilant as law enforcement continues to monitor the area. This incident marks a significant escalation in confrontations between local communities and federal agents, raising urgent questions about public safety and law enforcement practices in urban settings.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.