Mayor Lightfoot Claims Tear Gas Attack By Federal Agents At ICE Protest In Chicago

Michael

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Post on Sep 21, 2025

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Mayor Lightfoot Accuses Federal Agents of Tear Gas Attack at Chicago ICE Protest

Chicago, IL – Mayor Lori Lightfoot has leveled serious accusations against federal agents, claiming they used tear gas against peaceful protesters demonstrating against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Chicago. The incident, which unfolded late Tuesday night near the Metropolitan Correctional Center, has ignited a firestorm of controversy and raised serious questions about the federal government's response to civilian demonstrations.

The protest, organized by several local activist groups, focused on alleged human rights abuses within ICE detention centers. Mayor Lightfoot, who arrived at the scene shortly after the alleged tear gas deployment, was visibly upset, describing the actions of the federal agents as "unacceptable" and "a blatant disregard for the safety and rights of Chicagoans exercising their First Amendment rights."

<h3>Tear Gas Deployment Sparks Outrage and Demands for Accountability</h3>

Witnesses reported that federal agents, whose precise affiliation remains unclear, dispersed the crowd using what they described as tear gas. Videos circulating on social media appear to show protesters coughing and running for cover amidst a cloud of what seems to be a chemical irritant. The Mayor's office is currently investigating the incident, demanding immediate transparency and accountability from federal authorities. Lightfoot stated definitively that the protesters were largely peaceful prior to the alleged attack.

"This was a blatant escalation of force against peaceful protestors," Lightfoot said in a press conference Wednesday morning. "This kind of heavy-handed tactic has no place in a democratic society. We demand a full investigation and those responsible must be held accountable."

The Chicago Police Department (CPD) was present at the protest but reportedly did not directly engage in the dispersal of the crowd. A spokesperson for CPD stated they are cooperating with the Mayor's office in the ongoing investigation and are reviewing body camera footage to determine the precise sequence of events.

<h3>Federal Response and Ongoing Investigation</h3>

As of yet, there has been no official statement from federal authorities acknowledging or denying the use of tear gas. The silence from federal agencies has only fueled the growing outrage amongst Chicago residents and civil rights organizations. Many are calling for the release of all relevant video and body camera footage, as well as a thorough, independent investigation into the incident.

This incident comes at a time of heightened tension surrounding immigration policies and ICE operations across the United States. Similar protests have taken place in numerous cities nationwide, often resulting in clashes between protesters and law enforcement. This specific incident in Chicago, however, has drawn significant national attention due to the direct involvement of federal agents and the strong condemnation from the city's mayor.

<h3>Calls for Transparency and Further Action</h3>

The Mayor's office has pledged to pursue all available legal avenues to ensure accountability for the alleged assault. Lightfoot is urging the Department of Justice to launch an independent investigation into the incident and is calling on the public to share any relevant evidence or testimony.

This developing story highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the use of force against civilian protesters. The incident raises critical questions about the role of federal agents in local protests and the need for greater transparency and accountability in the enforcement of immigration laws. We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Stay informed and share this article to amplify the call for justice.