Illinois Opens Probe After ICE Agent Allegedly Fires Chemical Munitions at Reporter’s Vehicle

September 28, 2025 – USA – 

Illinois authorities have launched a criminal investigation after a federal immigration agent is accused of firing a chemical munition at CBS reporter Asal Rezaei’s pickup truck near an ICE facility in Broadview.

Rezaei says she approached the facility to observe possible activity when she was struck by a pepper ball fired from about 50 feet inside the fenced perimeter. She describes feeling intense burning on her face and inside her truck, with white powder lingering on her windshield and interior surfaces. She also says she vomited shortly afterward, though she declined medical treatment.

According to police reports and Rezaei’s statements, no protests or demonstrators were present at the time. She was alone in her vehicle and did not verbally identify herself as a journalist. The incident is described by authorities as unprovoked. Broadview Police Chief Thomas Mills said the department expects full cooperation from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in its inquiry.

This event follows a series of confrontations between federal agents and journalists at the same location. In recent days, journalists covering protest activity near the Broadview ICE site have reported being hit by chemical munitions, tear gas, and other projectiles.  For instance, tear gas was previously deployed at protesters near the facility in actions that also impacted media personnel.

Local and state investigative agencies, including the Illinois State Police, have joined the probe due to the severity of the claims. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security has not yet issued a public statement regarding the allegations.

The case has drawn attention to broader concerns over press freedom and the treatment of journalists reporting in sensitive or volatile environments. Advocacy groups are watching closely, warning that media professionals must not be exposed to violence when fulfilling their duties.

Reference – 

https://www.aol.com/articles/illinois-police-investigating-ice-agent-215206439.html

https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/feds-fire-pepper-ball-at-cbs-chicago-reporters-truck/

https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/broadview-police-launch-investigation-after-cbs-reporters-car-allegedly-was-fired-chemical-munition