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Chemical Agent Released at Dilley, Texas Detention Center Protest
Tensions escalated as state troopers in riot gear engaged with demonstrators calling for the release of detained individuals.
Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:47pm
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A chemical agent was released during a protest outside the Dilley, Texas, detention center on Wednesday, January 28. Hundreds of demonstrators had gathered to march to the South Texas Family Residential Center and call for the release of detained individuals living in the U.S. without legal permission, as well as greater transparency from authorities. The protest turned tense after about 15 to 20 state troopers in riot gear arrived and engaged with the fewer than 50 remaining demonstrators, resulting in the release of an unknown chemical agent.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions over immigration detention policies and the treatment of undocumented individuals in the U.S. The Dilley detention center has faced scrutiny over its conditions and the mental health impacts on detainees, especially children. This protest is part of a broader movement calling for reforms to the immigration system and greater protections for vulnerable populations.
The details
According to reports, the majority of the crowd had already dispersed when the state troopers in riot gear arrived and rushed at the remaining demonstrators, chanting "back, back, back" while pushing their batons. A canister was then tossed at the crowd, resulting in a white powder explosion. It's unclear which agency released the chemical agent, and if any arrests were made, as videos show state troopers tackling demonstrators.
- The protest took place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
- Congressman Joaquin Castro visited the detention center earlier that same day, from 11 a.m. to about 2:30 p.m.
The players
Dilley Police Department
The local police department that was conducting traffic control during the protest.
Texas Department of Public Safety
The state agency that deployed troopers in riot gear to engage with the demonstrators.
Congressman Joaquin Castro
A U.S. Representative from San Antonio who visited the Dilley detention center earlier that day to conduct a welfare check on the 1,110 people detained there, including a 5-year-old boy and his father.
Congressman Jasmine Crockett
A Texas U.S. Representative who joined Congressman Castro in visiting the Dilley detention center.
Texas Rep. Linda Garcia
A Texas state representative who also visited the Dilley detention center on the same day.
What they’re saying
“Liam's father informed Castro that his son hasn't been acting like himself and has been feeling depressed. Castro expressed concern for Liam's mental well-being, as well as for the other parents and children who are detained at the center.”
— Congressman Joaquin Castro (MySA)
What’s next
The Texas Department of Public Safety has been asked to provide details on the chemical agent used and whether any arrests were made during the protest.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and concerns over the treatment of undocumented immigrants and their families in detention centers, as well as the need for greater transparency and accountability from authorities regarding the use of force against peaceful protesters.
