Deputies Disperse Student Protesters with Pepper Spray During Traffic Stop

Incident occurred during Canyon High School walkout protesting ICE

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

During a student walkout at Canyon High School protesting Immigration and Customs Enforcement, deputies conducting an unrelated traffic stop in the same area were approached by a crowd of around 50-75 students. The students allegedly threw objects at the deputies, who then briefly deployed pepper spray to disperse the crowd and restore order. No arrests were made and there were no reports of major injuries.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the tensions that can arise when law enforcement actions intersect with student protests and activism. While authorities have a duty to maintain public safety, the use of force against student protesters raises concerns about the appropriate balance between upholding the law and respecting First Amendment rights.

The details

According to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station, deputies were conducting a routine traffic stop around 12:30 pm near the high school when a crowd of students from the earlier walkout approached them. The students allegedly threw objects like water bottles and rocks, striking the two deputies. This prompted the deputies to briefly use pepper spray to disperse the crowd and restore order. No arrests were made and there were no major injuries reported.

  • The incident occurred around 12:30 pm on Tuesday, February 12, 2026.
  • Earlier that morning, Canyon High School students had walked out to protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The players

Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and provided details about it.

Canyon High School students

A group of around 50-75 students who participated in a walkout protesting Immigration and Customs Enforcement and later approached deputies during a traffic stop.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department supports the right to peacefully protest and to exercise First Amendment rights. However, when actions become violent or criminal, law enforcement will take appropriate action to ensure public safety and uphold the law.”

— Shirley Miller, Spokeswoman, Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station (signalscv.com)

What’s next

The incident remains under active investigation by the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station.

The takeaway

This event underscores the delicate balance that law enforcement must strike between protecting public safety and respecting the rights of student protesters. As communities grapple with these issues, open communication, de-escalation tactics, and a commitment to nonviolence on all sides will be crucial.