Additional Coverage:
Worcester, MA – A tense standoff unfolded on Eureka Street Thursday morning as ICE agents detained a woman holding her newborn child, sparking protests from roughly 25 local residents. The incident, captured on video, shows residents demanding to see a warrant and identification from the agents.
The scene quickly escalated, with shouting and a physical altercation that resulted in at least one person being tackled by police. Amidst the chaos, the mother was placed in a vehicle, and her baby was handed to a teenage girl. One ICE official reportedly responded to requests for identification or a warrant by saying, “We don’t have to show you anything.”
Worcester police responded to the scene and confirmed the woman’s arrest, stating that the situation became volatile when several individuals interfered with federal agents and officers.
The woman’s teenage daughter briefly attempted to block the ICE vehicle while holding the infant before handing the child off and allegedly kicking the car. She was subsequently arrested and faces charges including child endangerment.
Another local resident, Ashley Spring, a candidate for the Worcester School Committee, was also arrested for allegedly shoving officers and throwing an “unknown liquid” at them. She faces multiple charges, including assault and battery on a police officer.
City officials expressed dismay over the incident. City Manager Eric Battista stated, “My heart goes out to all those impacted by today’s events and the growing tension we all feel due to the national political climate.”
Mayor Joseph Petty called the event “devastating,” adding, “As someone who prides themselves on leading a welcoming city, I am devastated to hear about the separation of a family, especially with Mother’s Day around the corner.” City Hall officials confirmed they received no advance notice of the ICE operation.
While ICE operations typically require warrants, details surrounding this particular incident remain unclear.