Student Anti-ICE Protest Turns Violent in Downtown LA

Federal officers injured as mob attacks police during demonstration

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A student-led protest against ICE in downtown Los Angeles turned violent on Friday, with a mob of up to 300 people throwing rocks and other objects at federal officers. Three officers were injured, including one who was hospitalized with a concussion. The U.S. Attorney vowed to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators, warning that they would face federal detention if arrested.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement agencies like ICE and activist groups, particularly in liberal cities like Los Angeles. It also raises concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers and the potential for protests to escalate into violence.

The details

According to authorities, the protest began peacefully but then a group of demonstrators started throwing rocks and other objects at federal officers outside the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building. One ICE officer was hit in the head with a rock and suffered a concussion, while two Federal Protective Services officers also sustained injuries. Viral video footage showed a protester swinging a pole and striking an officer in the head. The officers then used Tasers to push the mob back down the street.

  • The protest took place on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Bill Essayli

The U.S. Attorney for Los Angeles who vowed to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of the violence.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that was the target of the protest.

Federal Protective Services

The federal law enforcement agency that was also targeted during the protest.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The violent attack this afternoon by high school students on federal officers is unacceptable. We have video of the suspects, and they will be arrested and charged, regardless of whether they are minors.”

— Bill Essayli, U.S. Attorney for Los Angeles (California Post)

“Based on the increased violence targeting federal law enforcement, we are surging officers to our downtown Los Angeles buildings. I have directed them to make arrests on the spot for anyone committing a crime, regardless of whether they are an adult or a teenager. If arrested, you will spend the weekend in a federal detention facility. We have plenty of bed space.”

— Bill Essayli, U.S. Attorney for Los Angeles (X)

What’s next

The U.S. Attorney's office has vowed to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of the violence, and has warned that anyone arrested will face federal detention.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement agencies and activist groups, and the potential for protests to escalate into violence. It also raises questions about the role of law enforcement in managing demonstrations and the balance between free speech and public safety.