UPDATE: In a shocking incident today, anti-ICE protesters mistakenly confronted a group of software engineers at Clancey’s Deli in Minneapolis, believing them to be federal immigration agents. This chaotic scene unfolded around noon as a mass text alert from the “SW Minneapolis Rapid Response” group erroneously identified the engineers as ICE agents, prompting dozens to swarm the restaurant.
Video footage captures the tense moments as the tech workers, enjoying lunch, found themselves surrounded by a furious crowd. One engineer, identified as Lee, described the alarming atmosphere, stating, “My friend was shocked. He lives nearby and has eaten there before. Suddenly, he’s seeing messages saying we’re ICE.”
As the engineers exited the deli, they were met with a barrage of insults and whistles. One protester shouted, “You’re a f–king bootlicker bitch!” while another warned, “If you’re not with us, then you’re against us!” The situation escalated, leaving the engineers feeling threatened and bewildered.
Lee recounted the hostile atmosphere, saying some protesters labeled them “pedophiles,” while the ringleader insisted they deserved such harassment for being “white privileged males.” He emphasized the risks associated with such mistaken identities, stating, “You don’t just tell extremists that random customers are ICE agents. That’s how people get hurt.”
The incident has raised significant concerns over the safety and accuracy of information shared among activist groups. Lee noted that after facing the aggressive crowd, many of the engineers began to reconsider their views on such protests. “I think some of them are rethinking everything,” he stated.
This alarming encounter reflects the heightened tensions surrounding immigration issues in the U.S., particularly under the Trump administration, which has faced backlash for its hardline stance on immigration enforcement. As protests continue to occur across the nation, officials stress the importance of verifying information before taking action.
Next Steps: Authorities are likely to review the protocols for sharing alerts among activist groups to ensure public safety. The incident serves as a crucial reminder of the potential consequences of misinformation in politically charged environments. As the story develops, it highlights the urgent need for dialogue on immigration, safety, and community engagement.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as officials investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident and its implications for the ongoing immigration debate in the U.S.
