A federal immigration operation in Worcester, Massachusetts turned chaotic Thursday after dozens of residents surrounded ICE agents who were trying to arrest a mother in front of her children.
The incident happened around 11:15 a.m. on Eureka Street, where Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents approached a woman with her 16-year-old daughter and newborn baby. According to the local advocacy group LUCE, ICE had detained the woman’s husband the day before.
Crowd blocks ICE agents during arrest attempt
Neighbors quickly noticed the scene and gathered outside. Within minutes, around 25 people formed a human ring around the family. They demanded to see a warrant and identification from the agents.
An ICE agent reportedly told the crowd, “We don’t have to show you anything.”
ICE then called Worcester police for assistance. Officers later said some in the crowd made physical contact with federal agents and local officers.
Police arrest teen daughter after confrontation
The woman gave her baby to her teenage daughter before ICE placed her in custody. The daughter stood in front of the vehicle, blocking it from leaving.
She then handed the infant to a neighbor and kicked the vehicle. As officers approached, she ran.
NBC Boston captured video showing police chasing and restraining her. In the footage, she can be heard screaming. According to police, her face hit the ground during the arrest. Officers charged her with four offenses, including child endangerment.
Officials and residents speak out
Police also arrested Worcester School Committee candidate Ashley Spring. She allegedly threw an unknown liquid at officers and faces a charge of assault and battery on a police officer.
City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj joined residents at the scene. She said she stood with the group that surrounded the family.
“As an elected official, it is my obligation to stand up for my constituents,” Haxhiaj said. She called the federal arrests “unconstitutional” and said they created fear in Worcester’s immigrant communities.
Local leaders criticize ICE action
City Manager Eric Batista called the incident “harrowing” and “disturbing.” He said local officers were there to preserve peace, not assist ICE with the arrests.
“My heart goes out to all those impacted by today’s events and the growing tension we all feel due to the national political climate,” Batista said.
Mayor Joseph Petty also condemned the arrest. “As someone who prides themselves on leading a welcoming city, I am devastated to hear about the separation of a family—especially with Mother’s Day around the corner,” he said.
Officials said the city received no advance notice of the ICE operation.
ICE enforcement increasing in Massachusetts
This incident follows a warning from ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons, who said the agency was preparing for a new wave of arrests in the Greater Boston area. The operation appears to be part of that broader surge.
Advocates and community members say they fear more confrontations as immigration enforcement expands. ICE has not yet released an official statement.
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