Photos: Tensions Surge as Tucson ICE Office Becomes Protest Epicenter

Protesters clashed with private security guards at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in Tucson on Wednesday afternoon, leading to broken windows and rocks thrown as a peaceful demonstration escalated.

The event, labeled a “Melt ICE” protest, commenced around 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of East Valencia and South Country Club roads. Participants carried American and Mexican flags along with megaphones, demonstrating peacefully in temperatures exceeding 102 degrees. However, just 30 minutes later, tensions erupted with rocks and fireworks directed at security personnel guarding the office complex.

Approximately 300 protesters marched from a nearby McDonald’s to the ICE office, where they encountered private security blocking access. The standoff escalated, with security personnel threatening to use tear gas and batons. Defying the barriers, protesters linked arms and advanced, while some hurled rocks and balloons filled with paint towards the guards. A few wielded metal shields crafted from water heater cladding.

The confrontation intensified when a smoke bomb was detonated, prompting security to retreat into the parking lot as they deployed mace. In the chaos, metal bars were thrown and windows shattered.

Law enforcement intervention came when around 30 officers from the Tucson Police Department arrived, causing many protesters to scatter. The crowd diminished to about 150, leading to a temporary easing of tensions. Protesters formed a new line, keeping their distance from the police, while some began to play hand drums and chant into a microphone.

Tucson Police Chief Chad Kasmar issued a statement emphasizing that the department is aware of federal immigration enforcement activities but is not involved in any operations. He affirmed the department’s commitment to the constitutional rights of individuals to assemble peacefully. “Our role is to help ensure the safety of all involved,” he stated.

Kasmar continued, “We encourage community engagement in peaceful protests and remain dedicated to supporting respectful demonstrations throughout Tucson.” As night fell, a line of local police pushed the demonstrators further away from the intersection, resulting in the arrest of three individuals.

By sunset, about 50 protesters and 30 officers remained on the scene.