July 16, 2025

Coordinated Ambush on ICE Facility Leads to Multiple Arrests

News Summary

An ambush on an ICE facility in Alvarado resulted in 12 arrests, including Benjamin Hanil Song, facing charges of attempted murder against federal agents. On July 4, a group attacked the Prairieland Detention Center, injuring an officer and showcasing a rise in violence against law enforcement. Investigations reveal anti-government sentiments among suspects, raising concerns for safety.

Alvarado, Texas – A coordinated ambush on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility on July 4 has led to the arrest of 12 suspects, including the primary suspect, Benjamin Hanil Song, 32. Song faces serious charges, including three counts of attempted murder of federal agents and three counts of discharging a firearm during a violent crime. The ambush has drawn significant attention to the ongoing rise in violence against law enforcement in the United States.

On the day of the incident, a group of 10-12 individuals launched an attack on the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado. The assailants used fireworks to lure correctional officers outside and then opened fire, discharging 20-30 rounds towards them. An Alvarado police officer was shot in the neck during this brazen attack but has since recovered following treatment at a local hospital. The assault on law enforcement has been classified as a coordinated effort aimed at killing ICE correction officers, according to the U.S. Attorney.

Song was apprehended a few days later in a coordinated multi-agency effort involving the FBI, the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and SWAT teams at Meadowcrest Apartments in Far North Dallas. His involvement in the ambush involved him using two rifles purchased in his name. Investigators located Song’s phone near the detention center until after dark on July 5, indicating he remained in the area following the ambush. Surveillance footage from DFW Airport captured a man believed to be Song driving in a white Mercedes registered to a relative.

Following the attack, eleven of the other suspects initially escaped, but law enforcement agencies worked swiftly to apprehend them. Additionally, investigators arrested two individuals, John Phillip Thomas and Lynette Read Sharp, who are accused of aiding Song in evading capture. Investigations into the group revealed that they had expressed anti-government sentiments and had literature advocating violent insurrection in their possessions.

The ambush reflects growing trends of violence against law enforcement, raising concerns among local and federal agencies. U.S. Attorney Nancy Larson has emphasized the calculated nature of the attack, underscoring the severity of the charges against those involved. As of now, investigations continue, and additional charges may be pursued as law enforcement agencies work to assess the full extent of the ambush and its planning.

To add to the chaos of the situation, the group vandalized vehicles in the vicinity, spray-painting “ICE pig” graffiti on a Toyota Prius, further showcasing their intent to display hostility towards law enforcement. Overall, the incident marks an alarming development in attacks directed at federal agents and adds to an increasing list of violent incidents against law enforcement in the nation.

The investigation into the ambush is ongoing, with additional suspects potentially being pursued. Authorities are committed to ensuring that all perpetrators are identified and brought to justice as they address this serious threat to law enforcement safety.

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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

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