TPUSA Reporter Assaulted at Minneapolis ICE Protest

Savanah Hernandez was attacked by protesters while covering a demonstration against a local ICE detention facility.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:24pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a twisted, crumpled metal fence post against a stark black background, conveying the violence and disruption of the protest through its harsh, gritty visual style.A tense, chaotic scene as a journalist covering a politically charged protest faces assault and harassment from demonstrators.Minneapolis Today

Turning Point USA reporter Savanah Hernandez was assaulted by protesters during an ICE demonstration in Minneapolis on Saturday. Hernandez was covering the protest at the Whipple Federal Building when she was swarmed by demonstrators, who blew horns in her face, yelled obscenities, and physically pushed and shoved her as she tried to leave the area. Hernandez sustained minor injuries but was able to escape the violent encounter.

Why it matters

The attack on Hernandez highlights the growing tensions and risks journalists face when covering politically charged protests. The incident raises concerns about the safety of reporters covering controversial issues and the potential for violence to erupt at such events.

The details

According to video footage, protesters swarmed Hernandez, blowing horns in her face, yelling obscenities, and waving adult novelty products at her as she tried to cover the demonstration. Hernandez was pushed to the ground multiple times and had to repeatedly yell at protesters to leave her alone as she attempted to exit the area. Other individuals at the scene claimed they tried to help Hernandez escape the violent protesters.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, April 13, 2026 during an ICE protest at the Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis.
  • Following the assault, Hernandez posted on X that she had sustained minor injuries, including scrapes on her legs and soreness in her neck and back.

The players

Savanah Hernandez

A reporter for Turning Point USA who was covering the ICE protest in Minneapolis when she was assaulted by demonstrators.

Hennepin County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident and charging four people in connection with the assault on Hernandez and a deputy.

Andrew Mercado

A liberal streamer who posted on X that the physical confrontation ultimately led law enforcement to declare an unlawful assembly and shut down the entire protest.

Harmeet Dhillon

The Assistant Attorney General who confirmed on X that the FBI has opened an investigation into the assault on Hernandez.

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What’s next

The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident, and four people are expected to be charged in connection with the assault on Hernandez and a deputy. The FBI has also opened an investigation into the attack on the reporter.

The takeaway

This attack on a journalist covering a politically charged protest highlights the growing risks and tensions reporters face when reporting on controversial issues. It underscores the need for greater protections and safety measures for members of the press covering such events.