Three workers at El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant in Willmar, Minnesota, were detained by agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shortly after serving them lunch on January 15, 2026. The incident has raised concerns among local residents about increased federal enforcement actions in the area.
After the ICE agents dined at the restaurant, a dishwasher and two owners of El Tapatio closed the establishment early upon realizing the agents were present. Since then, the restaurant has remained shut, although the owners’ son stated that they planned to reopen for business soon. The local community has reacted strongly, with many residents observing heightened police activity and some businesses temporarily closing their doors.
In a statement to Willmar Radio, Willmar Mayor Doug Reese emphasized that ICE is performing its federal responsibilities and called for respect towards “peaceful, lawful protest.” This reiterates the delicate balance between federal enforcement and community relations, particularly in areas with significant immigrant populations.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that the target of the detentions was an individual identified as Jose Rosario Gomez. According to DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, the ICE officers conducted a vehicle stop later that day, apprehending Gomez along with two additional individuals who were in the car. One of the individuals reportedly had a final order of removal issued by an immigration judge.
The situation escalated further in nearby Minneapolis, where ICE agents faced verbal hostility from diners at a Mexican restaurant. The confrontation forced the agents to leave the establishment after patrons shouted expletives and demanded their exit.
This incident occurs amidst ongoing tensions in Minnesota, particularly following protests against ICE that have entered their second week. These protests intensified after a tragic event where a demonstrator was fatally shot while allegedly attempting to run over agents with her vehicle.
Residents in Willmar have expressed a mix of concern and resignation regarding the presence of ICE in their community. Although daily life appeared normal on the streets following the detentions, the underlying anxiety about federal enforcement has become palpable.
As the situation continues to develop, both local leaders and community members are grappling with the implications of increased ICE activity. The balance between national immigration policies and the rights of local residents remains a contentious issue, as communities navigate the complexities of federal enforcement in their neighborhoods.
