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Federal agents repeatedly use tear gas, pepper spray on protesters at Broadview ICE facility

Sep 19, 2026·Location: Broadview, IL

Federal agents repeatedly use tear gas, pepper spray on protesters at Broadview ICE facility
Photo via The Guardian

Demonstrators have repeatedly clashed with federal agents outside the ICE detention facility in Broadview, Illinois, over several consecutive weeks, protesting detention conditions and showing support for detainees. On September 19, 2025, protesters blocking the facility's driveway were pepper-sprayed, including directly in the face, and an ICE vehicle struck at least one protester who sustained minor injuries; a witnessing attorney described agents as pushing protesters in an 'aggressive and violent manner.' On September 26, agents used pepper balls, tear gas, and baton rounds against more than 100 protesters, taking 11 into custody, with five later facing federal charges. On October 4, agents again deployed tear gas, pepper balls, and other chemical munitions against protesters, journalists, and legal observers, with chemical agents also affecting nearby residents; congressional candidate Kat Abughazaleh and Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss were arrested. Broadview's mayor sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security citing dangers to residents from chemical agents and blocked emergency access, while lawsuits were filed alleging excessive force and First Amendment violations.

Timeline

Oct 4, 2025—Agents deployed tear gas and pepper balls against protesters, journalists, and legal observers; local officials arrested; lawsuits filed
Sep 26, 2025—Agents used pepper balls, tear gas, and baton rounds against over 100 protesters; 11 taken into custody, five later federally charged
Sep 19, 2025—Protesters blocking facility driveway were pepper-sprayed; ICE vehicle struck a protester who sustained minor injuries
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