Family, Grocery Shoppers Run As Masked Agent Throws Smoke Bomb Onto Busy Chicago Street

A chaotic incident unfolded in Logan Square when a masked federal agent threw a smoke grenade onto a crowded street, forcing a local family to flee. The couple, walking home with their toddler, reported that ICE agents had been targeting the nearby Rico Fresh grocery store for weeks. Witnesses described drivers honking and using their vehicles to block the agents, while people blew whistles to alert others. The couple experienced the smoke's burning effects, with one parent stating, "It hit me even before I realized it," highlighting the unexpected nature of the attack. Ald.

Jessie Fuentes condemned the incident, calling it an escalation of violence against residents. The event coincided with increased ICE activity throughout Chicago, causing fear and anger in the community. Andrew Denton, a witness, criticized the agents' actions as unprovoked, emphasizing the disproportionate harm to the Hispanic community. Many residents are now left wondering about the safety of their neighborhood amid ongoing ICE operations.