Anti-ICE Protester Accidentally Sets Himself on Fire While Torching American Flag in Portland

Bystanders call the protester "an idiot" as they scramble to put out the flames.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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A protester outside an ICE facility in Portland, Oregon accidentally set himself on fire while attempting to torch an American flag during a weekend demonstration. Footage shows the protester suddenly engulfed in flames as they frantically tried to put out the blaze, with bystanders criticizing their foolish actions.

Why it matters

Protests against ICE and immigration policies have been ongoing in Portland, with the ICE facility being a frequent site of demonstrations. This incident highlights the risks and unintended consequences that can arise from such protests, as well as the public's perception of the protesters' tactics.

The details

The video shows the protester, dressed in dark pants and a hoodie, setting an American flag on fire in the middle of the street. Suddenly, the protester is engulfed in flames and scrambles to put out the blaze. Bystanders can be heard yelling "What an idiot" and "What a f--king idiot" as the protester staggers around. The protester eventually manages to extinguish the flames, but it's unclear if they were injured.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday during a protest outside an ICE facility in Portland.

The players

The Protester

An unidentified individual who attempted to torch an American flag during a protest outside an ICE facility in Portland, Oregon.

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What they’re saying

“What an idiot”

— Bystander (YouTube/Not Tina Kotex)

“What a f--king idiot”

— Bystander (YouTube/Not Tina Kotex)

“People light themselves on fire cause they're f---king stupid”

— Bystander (YouTube/Not Tina Kotex)

The takeaway

This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the risks and unintended consequences that can arise from protest tactics, particularly those involving fire or other dangerous elements. It also highlights the public's perception of such protests, with many onlookers criticizing the protester's foolish actions.