In Elgin, Illinois, a traffic accident involving a federal agent sparked a series of intense events on Saturday, culminating in the use of “chemical irritants” during an immigration enforcement operation, according to local police.
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The incident began when a federal agent reached out to the Elgin Police Department at approximately 9:15 a.m. The agent reported a collision occurring in the 1600 block of West Highland Avenue and noted that the other party involved had fled towards the nearby Maple Lane area.
Shortly after 10 a.m., Elgin police received reports of individuals wearing masks and claiming to have a warrant on a property located in the 1600 block of Maple Lane. Upon investigation, it was confirmed that these individuals were indeed federal agents conducting an operation related to immigration enforcement.
Later in the day, around 12:22 p.m., Elgin police were called to the same block of Maple Lane following reports of gunshots. However, they determined that no shots had been fired. During this time, federal agents deployed “chemical irritants” as part of their operation.
ABC7 reporters at the scene noted heightened tensions between federal agents and protesters gathered in the area.
ABC7 crews observed tense moments between the federal agents and protesters at the scene.
At least seven people were treated for exposure to the chemical irritants by Elgin police and fire first responders, local officials said.
“The Elgin Police Department will continue to respond to any calls for service and determine the appropriate action within the parameters of the Illinois Trust Act which prohibits Elgin officers from assisting with federal immigration enforcement operations,” a statement from Elgin police read in part.
No further information was immediately available.
