Students Flee Bus Stop as ICE Agents Arrive at N.J. Apartment Complex

Dozens of students scrambled to avoid an Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation in Camden County.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Several fourth and fifth-grade students waiting at a bus stop at an apartment complex in Lindenwald, New Jersey ran from the area after an ICE operation began at their apartment complex on Thursday morning. Video showed dozens of students running back into the apartment complex, some yelling "ICE, ICE." The school district rushed counselors and support staff to the school to assist the shaken and emotional students upon their arrival.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the fear and disruption that ICE enforcement actions can have on immigrant communities, especially when they occur in close proximity to schools and children. It raises concerns about the impact on students' sense of safety and ability to get to school.

The details

According to the school district, a bus driver had to circle the area several times to pick up as many students as possible and transport them to school after the ICE operation began. School officials said they had contacted county and state representatives to advocate for protocols that prioritize the safety of students during future operations.

  • On Thursday morning, ICE agents appeared at an apartment complex in Lindenwald, Camden County.

The players

Camden County School District

The school district that oversees the elementary school where the incident occurred.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that conducted the operation at the apartment complex.

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What they’re saying

“The presence of multiple enforcement vehicles caused significant fear and confusion, and several students ran from the bus stop.”

— Camden County School District (School district's social media post)

“Our students deserve to feel safe while waiting for their school bus and while attending school each day. Please know that we are here to support your children and your family.”

— Camden County School District (School district's social media post)

What’s next

School officials said they had contacted county and state representatives to advocate for protocols that prioritize the safety of students during future operations.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the disruptive and traumatic impact that ICE enforcement actions can have on immigrant communities, especially when they occur near schools and involve children. It underscores the need for policies and protocols that protect student safety and wellbeing during such operations.