A gunman opened fire on detainees outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Dallas, killing one and critically injuring two others before taking his own life.

According to NewsNation, the FBI is treating the incident as an act of targeted violence. Authorities confirmed no law enforcement officers were harmed in the attack, which occurred early Wednesday morning.

Officials identified the suspected shooter through sources as 29-year-old Joshua Jahn of Collin County, Texas. Police have not yet released his name publicly, but investigators say rounds recovered at the scene carried “anti-ICE in nature” messages.

Shooter fired from rooftop vantage point

Law enforcement reported that the shooter opened fire from the rooftop of a building near the facility at approximately 6:40 a.m. DHS stated the victims were struck near a van inside the sallyport of the ICE field office.

The sniper-style attack prompted an emergency response, with SWAT trucks and federal agents quickly arriving on scene. FBI Special Agent Joseph Rothrock confirmed the weaponized rounds bore political messages directed at ICE.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the shooter died by suicide before being taken into custody. She condemned the violence and expressed concern over what she called increasing hostility toward immigration enforcement personnel.

Officials urge calm as investigation unfolds

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson called for prayers for the families of the victims and urged residents to remain calm while authorities conduct their investigation. He emphasized patience and restraint while law enforcement completes its work. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives joined the FBI and local officers at the scene to gather evidence. Photos from the location showed investigators on rooftops and searching nearby vehicles for clues.

While no officers were injured, officials said the attack underscores growing risks tied to anti-ICE rhetoric nationwide. Homeland Security officials said assaults on ICE staff have sharply risen in recent months, citing an alleged “1000% increase” though statistics were not provided.

Political leaders react with strong language

Vice President JD Vance described the shooting as an “obsessive attack on law enforcement,” framing the event within a broader trend of hostility toward government agencies. Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott called the act an “assassination” and promised state support for federal investigators.

Sen. Ted Cruz also addressed the incident during a press conference in Dallas, underscoring the need for increased security at ICE facilities. He expressed sympathy for the victims and condemned those who encourage violence against federal officers.

Pattern of threats and violence against ICE

The Dallas-area field office has experienced threats prior to this deadly shooting. On Aug. 26, a 36-year-old man threatened officers at the facility and claimed to have a bomb before being arrested and charged with terroristic threats.

Federal facilities in the region have also faced attacks from anti-ICE activists. On July 4, a group of individuals staged a coordinated ambush on the Prairieland Detention Center, injuring one officer and leading to 10 arrests. The incident involved explosives, vandalism, and confrontations with responding law enforcement officers. Slogans spray-painted on property included “ICE pig” and “traitor.”

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

1. Stay aware of political tensions: This incident illustrates how political or ideological grievances can lead to acts of violence. Understanding the rising rhetoric around immigration policies can help individuals and institutions remain alert to potential threats.

2. Public buildings must reassess security protocols: Government facilities, especially those dealing with contentious issues, should regularly update safety procedures. Increased surveillance, secured perimeters, and rapid response drills can benefit both staff and detainees.

3. Support mental health awareness and intervention: When individuals show signs of extreme anger or radicalization, early intervention is key. That said, it’s crucial to remember that crime can strike anyone, and no amount of vigilance can utterly prevent every attack. Victims are never to blame for crimes committed against them.

Why this story matters

This incident shines a light on the growing hostility surrounding immigration policy and enforcement in the United States. It also reveals the potential vulnerability of public institutions amid highly politicized environments. Understanding the motivations and circumstances behind such attacks is essential for community leaders, policymakers, and law enforcement in developing preventive strategies.

Conclusion

Wednesday’s deadly shooting at the Dallas ICE field office, which left one person dead and two detainees injured, is under investigation as a targeted act of violence. The suspected shooter, found dead by suicide, is believed to have acted out of ideological opposition to ICE. Marked rounds found at the scene support this theory. The tragedy follows a series of recent threats and attacks against ICE facilities, highlighting both rising tensions over immigration and possible vulnerabilities in security measures. Federal and state officials have condemned the act, while calls for greater protections and political restraint continue.