A planned and targeted attack on an ICE facility in Dallas has left one detainee dead and two others injured. The FBI has identified the suspect, Joshua Jahn, 29, who was found dead with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. According to officials, the shooting occurred while ICE officers were transferring detainees into the facility, and the suspect had prepared anti-ICE messages on the rounds he used. The FBI is treating the incident as a politically motivated attack, highlighting the suspect’s extensive preparation, including researching ICE operations, tracking agents, and studying previous attacks.
Jahn’s actions were described as highly planned, with evidence indicating a ‘high degree of pre-attack planning.’ Officials revealed that Jahn had a handwritten note expressing his hope to instill ‘real terror’ in ICE agents. The suspect, who had previously downloaded information on DHS facilities, was seen with a large ladder on his car before the attack, which authorities believe was used to gain access to the building. During the shooting, Jahn reportedly targeted both the facility and a van in the sally port, with no law enforcement officers injured. He took his own life approximately one hour after the shooting began, leaving behind a note that reflected his intent to disrupt the work of ICE employees.
The FBI, led by Director Kash Patel, emphasized that these types of attacks are not isolated incidents. Patel stated, ‘These despicable, politically motivated attacks against law enforcement are not a one-off.’ The FBI has been working 24/7 to gather evidence, including seizing devices, reviewing data, and processing writings found at the scene and in Jahn’s residence. The suspects’ notes detailed a ‘game plan’ of the attack and specific target areas within the facility, as reported by U.S. Attorney Nancy Larson. Jahn referred to ICE employees as individuals who showed up to collect a ‘dirty paycheck,’ indicating his anti-government sentiment. Despite his intent to limit collateral damage, the attack resulted in the death of one detainee and two injuries. Larson described the ironic outcome of Jahn’s plan, as the intended targets were the detainees themselves. Patel also mentioned that he was in Dallas for a ‘prescheduled visit’ and visited the incident command center, underscoring the significance of the event in the ongoing efforts to investigate such attacks.
As the investigation continues, officials are committed to pursuing justice for those who target law enforcement. Patel reaffirmed the FBI’s dedication to ensuring that individuals who commit such attacks are brought to the fullest extent of justice. The incident has prompted renewed discussions on the safety of immigration facilities and the broader implications of targeted violence against government agencies. The FBI is also reviewing previous cases, such as the Prairieland, Texas attack, to identify any patterns or commonalities that could inform future prevention strategies. This case highlights the persistent threat posed by individuals with anti-government sentiments and the importance of addressing such threats through a combination of law enforcement efforts and public safety measures.