Incident Overview
A man has been taken into custody after allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at a Homeland Security facility in Los Angeles, according to federal officials.
The suspect reportedly shouted anti-ICE remarks at employees before launching two firebombs toward the building, one of which was thrown through an open sliding door. Fortunately, the devices were unlit and did not ignite.
The Justice Department confirmed that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operates within the targeted building.
During his arrest, the man urged bystanders to “start shooting” while pointing at federal officers stationed nearby. He characterized his actions as a “terrorist attack” and accused law enforcement of “separating families,” a common critique aimed at ICE’s deportation policies.
Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary at Homeland Security, condemned the incident as a blatant attack on federal law enforcement. She emphasized that such assaults reflect ongoing hostility faced by officers who risk their lives to apprehend serious criminals.
McLaughlin attributed these attacks to what she described as hateful rhetoric from politicians, activists, and media figures who misrepresent ICE’s operations.
The Department of Homeland Security reported a staggering 1,150% increase in assaults against ICE personnel since President Trump assumed office and initiated mass deportation efforts.
The individual has been identified as Jose Francisco Jovel, 54 years old. He faces charges for attempted malicious damage to federal property. Prosecutors revealed that prior to this incident, Jovel had set fire to his apartment following an eviction notice.
McLaughlin noted that Jovel has an extensive criminal history dating back decades, including charges for attempted murder in 1987 and armed robbery in 1991.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed her deep concern regarding the event but did not address the anti-ICE sentiments involved. She labeled the behavior as “absolutely unconscionable” and thanked law enforcement for their prompt response that prevented injuries.
Bass has previously clashed with the Trump administration over immigration enforcement policies, particularly during an ICE operation targeting Los Angeles last June.
