Protesters March Against ICE in State College

Demonstrators demand accountability after recent death of Minneapolis man

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

More than 100 people gathered in front of Penn State's Old Main in State College, Pennsylvania last night to protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations and demand accountability in the recent death of Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis man killed by federal agents. The demonstration, organized by the Student Committee for Defense and Solidarity and the People's Defense Front, began with speeches and a vigil before participants marched through downtown, blocking traffic and exchanging profanities with drivers.

Why it matters

The protest reflects ongoing tensions over ICE's enforcement actions and the use of force by federal agents, particularly in the wake of high-profile incidents like the death of Alex Pretti. State College has seen previous demonstrations against ICE, highlighting the divisive nature of immigration policy debates.

The details

Protesters carried large banners reading 'People's Justice For Alex Pretti' and 'Drive ICE Out,' marching from the Penn State campus to the Allen Street Gates and into local avenues. There are reports that a white car struck protesters blocking the street, though no apparent injuries were caused.

  • The demonstration took place last night (January 26, 2026).

The players

Student Committee for Defense and Solidarity

A student organization that helped organize the protest against ICE.

People's Defense Front

A local activist group that co-organized the demonstration.

Alex Pretti

A Minneapolis man killed by federal agents, whose death sparked the protest.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The protest highlights the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the use of force by federal agents, as well as the willingness of local activists to organize demonstrations against ICE's actions.