In a chilling act of targeted violence, a gunman opened fire at a Dallas Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office on Wednesday, killing one detainee and critically injuring two others. Federal prosecutors have labeled the attack the “very definition of terrorism,” citing the shooter’s anti-government motives and intent to harm federal immigration agents.
What Happened in Dallas?
On September 24, 2025, 29-year-old Joshua Jahn approached an ICE transport van outside a Dallas field office and opened fire. Though he aimed at ICE agents, none were struck. Instead, three restrained detainees inside the van were hit—one fatally.
Key Details from the Investigation
- Suspect: Joshua Jahn, 29, acted alone
- Motive: Hatred of federal government and ICE agents
- Notes Found: “Yes, it was just me” and references to agents as “people showing up to collect a dirty paycheck”
- Outcome: Jahn died by suicide at the scene
Official Response: Terrorism Designation
Nancy Larson, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, declared the attack an act of domestic terrorism during a press conference on Thursday. She emphasized that Jahn’s writings revealed a clear intent to “cause real terror” among federal immigration personnel.
“This was not a random act of violence. It was calculated, ideological, and meant to intimidate a branch of our government.” — Nancy Larson, U.S. Attorney
Victim Nationalities and Status
| Victim | Status | Nationality | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detainee 1 | ICE detainee | Not disclosed | Deceased |
| Detainee 2 | ICE detainee | Mexican citizen | Critically injured |
| Detainee 3 | ICE detainee | Not disclosed | Critically injured |
Broader Context: Rising Threats to Federal Facilities
This attack comes amid a surge in threats against federal agencies, particularly those involved in immigration enforcement. The Department of Homeland Security has reported a 40% increase in violent incidents targeting ICE offices since 2023.
22 threats to ICE facilities
31 threats
28+ threats, including Dallas shooting
Experts warn that such attacks often stem from polarized political rhetoric and misinformation about immigration enforcement. For deeper analysis on domestic extremism, see our report at [INTERNAL_LINK:domestic-terrorism-usa].
