A tragic scene unfolded on the morning of September 24, 2025, when an armed individual opened fire on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Dallas, Texas. Authorities confirmed that Joshua Jahn, 29, was the gunman responsible for the attack, which left one detainee dead and two others critically injured before Jahn took his own life.
The incident is being investigated as a targeted attack against federal immigration enforcement, with early evidence suggesting possible anti-ICE sentiment.
Timeline of Events
6:40 a.m. CDT – The shooting began when rounds were fired from a rooftop near the ICE field office in Dallas.
Victims – Three detainees in a transport van were shot. One died at the scene, while two remain hospitalized in critical condition.
Shooter’s Fate – The gunman, identified as Joshua Jahn, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound before law enforcement entered the building.
Evidence – Investigators recovered bullet casings inscribed with the words “ANTI-ICE”, raising concerns of political or ideological motivation.
Who Was Joshua Jahn?
Authorities identified the shooter as Joshua Jahn, a 29-year-old man with roots in the Dallas-Oklahoma region. While Jahn had no recent violent criminal record, he had previously faced minor charges such as marijuana possession.
Family members described him as quiet and said they were shocked by the attack. His brother stated that Jahn did not openly express political opinions or hatred toward ICE, leaving investigators to determine whether the assault was planned alone or connected to broader anti-government or anti-immigration ideologies.
Reactions From Leaders and Officials
Federal Response
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) called the Dallas shooting a “heinous and deliberate attack on federal law enforcement.” Security protocols have since been heightened across ICE facilities nationwide.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem strongly condemned the attack, saying that violence against federal officers and detainees “cannot and will not be tolerated.”
Texas Leadership
Governor Greg Abbott reaffirmed his commitment to support ICE operations and law enforcement in Texas. He urged calm while stressing the importance of maintaining law and order.
Local Response
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson addressed residents, noting the city was cooperating fully with federal authorities. He asked the public to remain vigilant and avoid politicizing the tragedy while families of victims were still grieving.
A Growing Pattern of Attacks
This was not the first time an ICE facility in Texas came under assault. Just months earlier, in July 2025, an ICE detention site in Alvarado, Texas, was vandalized and attacked with fireworks and firearms.
Security experts warn that these repeated incidents highlight a rising trend of hostility against immigration enforcement agencies. The Dallas shooting escalated that threat to a new level, using sniper tactics and symbolic inscriptions to send a message.
Key Questions Investigators Are Probing
Motive – Was Jahn acting alone out of personal ideology, or was he inspired or supported by anti-government groups?
Preparation – How did he access a rooftop vantage point near a federal facility undetected?
Security Gaps – Are ICE and DHS facilities equipped to prevent sniper-style attacks?
Future Prevention – What additional measures will be taken to protect staff, detainees, and infrastructure?
Final Thoughts
The Dallas ICE facility shooting has once again brought immigration enforcement and national security into sharp focus. With one detainee dead and two fighting for their lives, the tragedy underscores the vulnerabilities federal facilities face in today’s polarized climate.
As authorities search for answers about Joshua Jahn’s background and motives, the attack is a sobering reminder that acts of targeted violence can erupt anywhere. Leaders now face the challenge of ensuring safety without fueling further division in already tense debates around immigration.
FAQs / Quick Facts
Q: Where did the shooting occur?
At the ICE field office in Dallas, Texas, near North Stemmons Freeway.
Q: Who was the shooter?
The suspect was identified as Joshua Jahn, 29, who died by suicide at the scene.
Q: How many people were shot?
Three detainees were shot; one died, two remain critically injured.
Q: Were ICE officers harmed?
No officers or staff were reported injured during the attack.
Q: What evidence was found?
Shell casings with the inscription “ANTI-ICE” were recovered, pointing to a possible political motive.
Q: What’s next?
The FBI, DHS, and local authorities are investigating. Security has been heightened across ICE facilities in Texas and beyond.
