Federal Agents Clash with Protesters in Eugene

Vigil for Alex Pretti leads to arrests and use of tear gas

Jan. 28, 2026 at 1:39pm

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Hundreds of protesters gathered at the Federal Building in downtown Eugene, Oregon on Tuesday to protest the presence of ICE agents. The demonstration began as a vigil for Alex Pretti, who was shot and killed by ICE agents in Minneapolis, but escalated into clashes between protesters and federal agents. The agents used tear gas, pepper balls, and flash bangs to disperse the crowd, and several protesters were arrested and detained.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement agencies and local communities, as well as the use of federal force against protesters. It also reflects the continued activism and outrage over high-profile incidents of ICE-related violence.

The details

The protest began around noon as a vigil for Alex Pretti, with protesters chanting "ICE Out!" and "Let them go!" referring to those detained. Federal agents eventually used tear gas, pepper balls, and flash bangs to clear the crowd, which had continued into the evening.

  • The protest began around noon on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
  • The federal agents used tear gas, pepper balls, and flash bangs to disperse the crowd in the evening.

The players

Alex Pretti

A man who was shot and killed by ICE agents in Minneapolis.

ICE

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement agencies and local communities, as well as the continued activism and outrage over high-profile incidents of ICE-related violence.