A group of suspects has been charged following a violent, coordinated attack on an ICE detention center in Alvarado, Texas, that left a police officer seriously injured. Law enforcement officials say the ambush, which took place on July 4, was intended to lure officers into a deadly trap.
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ALVARADO, TX (3-minute read) — Authorities say a coordinated ambush on July 4 targeted the Prairieland ICE Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, with the intent to kill federal officers. The attack, which occurred around 10:30 p.m., resulted in an Alvarado police officer being shot in the neck. Thankfully, he is expected to survive.
According to federal officials, a group of 10 to 12 individuals dressed in black military-style gear launched fireworks at the facility, while others vandalized property and sprayed graffiti with anti-law enforcement messages. The apparent goal was to draw ICE personnel outside, setting the stage for a violent confrontation.
Coordinated Violence Against Law Enforcement
When two unarmed detention officers stepped outside to investigate, they were met with gunfire. A lone Alvarado police officer who responded to the disturbance was ambushed from a wooded area and struck in the neck by a bullet. Another attacker reportedly fired 20 to 30 rounds toward the unarmed ICE officers from across the street.
Investigators recovered a jammed AR-style rifle at the scene. As law enforcement responded quickly, several suspects fled but were later apprehended. Deputies stopped one vehicle containing a driver with firearms and a Kevlar vest. Seven additional individuals were located nearby, some in body armor and covered in mud—apparently trying to evade capture.
The faces of the 10 people charged in a “planned ambush” on an ICE facility in Texas—with the intent to “kill ICE correction officers”—have been released. pic.twitter.com/DhhPFLMNZU
— Fox News (@FoxNews) July 8, 2025
Further investigation revealed the suspects had tactical gear, protest flags, graffiti supplies, and multiple sets of body armor. According to court documents, one of the arrested individuals admitted to meeting the group online and claimed he transported them to the facility to “make some noise.”
In total, ten people now face three counts each of attempted murder of a federal officer. One individual is charged with obstruction of justice for allegedly attempting to destroy evidence. If convicted, they could face anywhere from 10 years to life in prison.
Federal officials say this marks the fifth assault on law enforcement in Northern Texas this year. FBI Special Agent Joe Rothrock emphasized that significant resources have been dedicated to this investigation and assured the public that all those responsible will be held accountable.
Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy Larson condemned the attack as part of a growing trend of violence against law enforcement, stating unequivocally that such acts will not be tolerated.
Safety Tip: When responding to suspicious activity, always seek cover before assessing the situation—especially in low-light or high-risk environments. Even trained professionals can become targets, so prioritize your safety and use available barriers for protection whenever possible.
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