Nine Convicted in North Texas Attack on ICE Facility

Jurors in Fort Worth, Texas, reached a mixed verdict on Friday in the federal trial of nine individuals accused of conducting a violent attack on the Prairieland ICE Detention Facility on July 4, 2025. After approximately a day and a half of deliberations, the jury found most defendants guilty of various charges, including attempted murder and providing material support to terrorists.

Kash Patel, a spokesperson for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), expressed gratitude for the efforts of law enforcement. “The guilty verdicts in today’s case go to show this FBI’s 24/7 commitment to identifying, locating, and dismantling ANTIFA members and their networks,” Patel stated. He emphasized the agency’s determination to pursue those who threaten federal officers.

The attack involved firearms and explosives, resulting in damage to the facility and endangering the lives of law enforcement officers. During the incident, Benjamin Song was found guilty of the most serious charge: attempted murder for shooting Alvarado Police Lt. Thomas Gross. Alongside Song, eight other defendants were implicated, with the exception of Daniel Estrada, who was acquitted of all charges, as he was not present during the ambush.

In total, Song was convicted on three counts involving firearms but was acquitted of two attempted murder charges related to detention center employees. Other defendants, including Zachary Evetts, Autumn Hill, Meagan Morris, and Maricela Rueda, faced charges of rioting and conspiracy, with several acquittals on attempted murder and firearm discharges.

The courtroom proceedings highlighted the division among the defendants, with some being found guilty while others were cleared of serious charges. “If you attack federal law enforcement, this FBI will use every resource at our disposal to hunt you down,” Patel reiterated, reflecting the agency’s commitment to ensuring accountability.

The July 4 attack on the detention facility not only raised security concerns but also sparked discussions about the broader implications of such actions. Prosecutors characterized the assault as a coordinated effort by members of a North Texas ANTIFA cell, suggesting a pattern of organized violence against federal institutions.

As the case concludes, it underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding federal law enforcement and the challenges posed by extremist groups. The verdicts serve as a warning to those who may consider targeting federal officers or facilities.

The trial’s outcome has drawn attention from various sectors, reinforcing the importance of vigilance in protecting public safety and federal interests. The ramifications of this case will likely resonate within communities and law enforcement agencies as they navigate the complexities of domestic extremism and safety measures moving forward.