Vehicle Attacks Against Federal Immigration Agents More Than Double in 2025

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reported a dramatic surge in vehicle rammings and attacks targeting federal immigration agents, including Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel, since January 20, 2025. Overall, 99 vehicle attacks have been recorded against federal immigration agents this year, more than double the 47 attacks faced during the same period in 2024.

The data reveals a stark increase in aggression towards agents. "There have been 71 vehicular attacks against CBP since January 20, compared to 45 vehicle assaults during the same period in 2024 – a 58% increase," according to information shared by DHS. Even more significant, ICE has experienced a "1,300% increase," with 28 vehicular attacks since January 20, up from just two incidents in the same timeframe last year.

DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "We are seeing the results of the Left’s constant demonization of the men and women of law enforcement. Dangerous criminals – whether they be illegal aliens or U.S. citizens – are turning their vehicles into weapons to attack ICE and CBP." McLaughlin affirmed that "Anyone who attacks law enforcement, especially using their vehicles, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

Incidents have been reported across the country, with Chicago emerging as a significant flashpoint. Examples include multiple attacks in Chicago in October and November, where agents faced ramming attempts, and in one instance, gunfire. In Adelphi, Maryland, an individual with pending criminal charges allegedly rammed an ICE vehicle, while in Los Angeles, a federal marshal and an undocumented immigrant were injured after an agent's weapon discharged during an enforcement operation involving a vehicle ramming.

While DHS frames these as direct attacks on law enforcement, some reports and advocacy groups highlight a more complex picture. CNN noted that some crashes have been initiated by federal agents, and defense attorneys have presented alternative narratives in court, questioning who initiated collisions and raising concerns about evidence handling. The use of aggressive tactics, such as Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuvers, by federal agents during pursuits has also been a point of discussion.

These escalating confrontations pose significant risks not only to federal agents but also to the public. The DHS maintains that despite the challenges, agents will continue their operations to address public safety and national security threats.