SALEM, Ore — Salem police are investigating after federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents reported being blocked by vehicles near Lancaster Drive Northeast Friday morning, an incident that ended after agents deployed tear gas, authorities said.
Police said officers were dispatched around 9:30 a.m. to the area of 1970 Lancaster Drive NE after ICE agents reported about 30 people surrounded their vehicles and prevented them from leaving.
Before Salem agents arrived, the report said ICE agents deployed tear gas, released their vehicles and left the area.
Additional 911 calls subsequently reported symptoms consistent with tear gas exposure, including difficulty breathing and eye irritation. Salem police and firefighters responded to provide medical assistance and document the scene.
Detectives are currently collecting witness statements and other evidence, police said. The case will be referred to the Oregon Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for an independent review.
Salem police said the agents had no prior knowledge of ICE activities and were not coordinating with the agency. The department said its role was limited to responding to disruptions, providing medical aid and collecting evidence for monitoring agencies.
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