Federal Agents Deploy Tear Gas In Albany Park as Neighbors Block Immigration Arrest

Federal agents deployed tear gas in Albany Park as residents intervened to block the detention of a neighbor. Gabriel Paez and his wife, Megan Dougherty, filmed the agents confronting a man on the sidewalk when they returned home from brunch. As Paez shouted warnings and neighbors emerged to confront the agents, residents formed a human chain to block their path, prompting agents to deploy tear gas. This incident is part of Operation Midway Blitz, an immigration enforcement effort that has increased tensions in Chicago neighborhoods. Approximately 400 residents rallied in Rogers Park against recent ICE arrests, illustrating widespread community resistance.

Local officials, including Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez, praised the residents' courage and quick response to protect one another. Although one man was released, another individual was reportedly taken into custody during the confrontation. The community's actions reflect growing defiance against federal immigration enforcement tactics.