Tensions flared outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland on Saturday night, leading to confrontations between demonstrators and federal officers, with the gathering ultimately declared a riot by local authorities.
This incident marks a continuation of heightened protests at the facility, which has been a focal point for activists since President Donald Trump took office.
Just prior to this confrontation, peaceful demonstrations had unfolded across the state, including a significant gathering of over 10,000 individuals at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This event was part of the nationwide “No Kings” protest against a planned military parade in Washington D.C.
However, the atmosphere shifted drastically later in the evening as tensions escalated outside the ICE building. Protesters expressed their frustrations through chants and by throwing objects at the structure, including water bottles and, reportedly, a rock.
In response, officers from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security fired crowd control munitions, including tear gas and flashbangs, from various positions around the facility. These actions escalated the situation, culminating in a physical attempt by protesters to breach the building, highlighted by their success in breaking a glass door using a pole-like object.
As federal officers donned tactical gear and stepped out to secure the entrance, the crowd responded unpredictably, sometimes retreating before re-engaging with officials. At one point, federal officers claimed injury, prompting the Portland Police Bureau to arrive on scene to assist. After assessing the situation, police confirmed that the federal officer did not require medical treatment.
The Portland Police Bureau reported three arrests throughout the night, with charges ranging from attempted assault on officers to theft and driving while intoxicated. They emphasized their role was limited to addressing criminal behavior rather than participating in federal immigration enforcement activities.
The earlier, peaceful protests stood in stark contrast to the chaotic events later at the ICE building, which intensified in direct response to President Donald Trump’s recent actions, including the deployment of National Guard and U.S. Marines to Los Angeles amid ongoing unrest.
Throughout the night, a contrasting scene of calm amid chaos emerged. At times, the crowds danced to music while playfully kicking empty tear gas canisters, only to quickly recede when the federal officers deployed tear gas to regain control of the area.
The overall mood of the protests was amplified by the recent arrest of a trans asylum seeker known by the pseudonym O-J-M, sparking outrage among demonstrators who displayed a sign reading “Free OJM” on the ICE building’s facade. O-J-M was apprehended during a mandatory hearing at Portland Immigration Court, having been a part of the local asylum process prior to her detainment.
Prior to the escalation in hostilities, there were visible precautions taken by federal workers, as they reinforced the ICE building by boarding up windows in anticipation of possible unrest.
As the chaos continued, local authorities cautioned that while some arrests were made at the scene, others may follow as investigations proceed. The Portland Police Bureau reaffirmed their position, noting that not all criminal actions are addressed in the heat of the moment, but charges can still be forthcoming as they assess the events of the evening.
The protests outside the ICE building reflect ongoing tensions regarding immigration enforcement and broader social issues, demonstrating the volatility and complexity inherent in the community’s response to federal actions and policies.
As the situation develops, further updates and additional responses from authorities and community leaders are expected in the coming days.
image source from：https://www.opb.org/article/2025/06/14/portland-police-ice-facility-riot/
