Federal Agents Detain Workers in Chicago’s Old Irving Park

UPDATE: Federal agents have detained multiple individuals in Chicago’s Old Irving Park as part of the ongoing “Operation Midway Blitz,” sparking panic and disruption just before a neighborhood Halloween parade scheduled for today, October 28, 2023. Witnesses reported that tear gas was deployed during the confrontation, impacting the safety and spirit of the community event.

The incident unfolded early this morning when agents arrested Luis Villegas, a 35-year-old construction worker and father, as he worked on a home near the intersection of Kildare and Waveland. His family, who described him as an undocumented immigrant from Mexico, expressed their anguish as he was handcuffed in front of their residence. His brother Julian Villegas witnessed the distressing scene, stating, “It takes a toll on me because I’m the one that’s responsible for him… putting him in danger is just… I feel guilty.”

Neighbors quickly rallied in support, with some reportedly attempting to assist during the escalating situation. As chaos erupted, a video obtained by ABC7 shows agents detaining a man and a woman, with at least one elderly neighbor reportedly being thrown to the ground. “They essentially hauled him out the driver side of his car,” said local resident Brian Kolp.

The deployment of tear gas occurred amid children in costumes preparing for their Halloween parade, prompting many to voice their fears. “We were supposed to be standing on this corner with hundreds of families just walking around, and we’re just being terrorized by ICE,” lamented neighbor Anna Ware.

City leaders have condemned the actions of federal agents. Beatriz Ponce de León, Chicago’s Deputy Mayor for Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights, emphasized the legal efforts underway to hold the agents accountable. “Lawyers are doing their job of holding these agents accountable, and working through the courts,” she stated.

In response to the operations, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a statement, confirming the use of crowd control measures during the enforcement actions. The DHS described the events as a response to “agitators” who allegedly obstructed federal operations, and stated that agents faced increased hostility. “To protect themselves, the Border Patrol deployed additional measures to safely clear the area,” the statement read.

As tensions rise, local residents marched in solidarity on 26th Street, protesting the immigration crackdown and the actions of federal agents. The situation remains fluid as community members express their fears over increased federal presence in their neighborhoods.

The legal repercussions of these detentions remain unclear, with the Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino ordered to appear in court on Tuesday. As community members and officials demand accountability, the impact of this operation continues to resonate throughout the North Side of Chicago, affecting the lives of many families and the very fabric of neighborhood celebrations.

As the story develops, residents are urged to stay vigilant and informed about their rights and the ongoing situation in their community.