Feds Deploy Tear Gas, Pepper Spray on Hundreds at Portland ICE Protest

A gathering of hundreds unfolded outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) complex in South Portland on October 18, 2025. This protest followed a massive earlier rally dubbed “No Kings,” which attracted at least 40,000 participants to the city’s downtown. The atmosphere turned tense as federal agents deployed tear gas and pepper spray to disperse demonstrators.

Timeline of Events at the Portland ICE Protest

The protest began to gain momentum in the early afternoon. Here’s how the situation evolved throughout the day:

Afternoon Developments

• 2:00 p.m.: Federal agents detained an activist known for attending numerous demonstrations. He was forcibly removed and taken inside the facility.
• 3:00 p.m.: A few hundred protesters began chanting slogans against ICE, drawing more participants from the downtown rally.
• 3:45 p.m.: Another protester was detained as agents shot pepper balls to control the crowd.

Increasing Tensions

• 4:30 p.m.: Federal agents deployed tear gas, prompting many demonstrators to retreat.
• 5:00 p.m.: Traffic continued to flow along South Bancroft Street, as protesters spilled onto the road.
• 5:30 p.m.: Portland police warned that remaining in the street could lead to arrests and crowd control measures.

Evening Stand-Off

• 6:15 p.m.: Around 400 to 500 protesters maintained their energy, despite light rain.
• 7:00 p.m.: As tensions simmered, community member Jeff Olsen emphasized the importance of peaceful protests.
• 7:30 p.m.: A stand-off between demonstrators and agents occurred, leading to another tear gas deployment.

Consequence of Protests

By 8:30 p.m., Portland police announced the booking of three individuals on charges including assault and bias crimes. The evening wrapped up with lingering tensions as protesters continued to chant for justice outside the ICE facility.

This protest highlights the ongoing legal disputes surrounding ICE’s presence in Portland, reflecting broader national debates on immigration policies and federal authority.