Tear Gas and Arrests Mark Chaotic Evening
Federal agents deployed tear gas and pepper spray against protesters during Portland’s “No Kings” rally on Saturday, escalating what began as a peaceful demonstration outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in South Portland.
Authorities confirmed multiple uses of chemical agents, three arrests, and several minor injuries as tensions flared between demonstrators and law enforcement.
Peaceful Gathering Turns Violent
The rally began around 4:30 p.m. with a festive atmosphere—music, dancing, and attendees dressed in colorful inflatable costumes filled the streets. Organizers described the event as a statement against authoritarianism and government overreach.
Also Read
However, by early evening, the tone changed dramatically. Federal officers fired tear gas into the crowd, dispersing dozens of protesters. Witnesses said many were treated with saline solution after exposure to chemical irritants.
A second round of tear gas was deployed at approximately 7:30 p.m., sparking brief chaos as smoke filled the air. Small fires broke out but were quickly extinguished by light rain.
Arrests and Injuries Reported
Portland Police confirmed three arrests during the evening’s clashes. Charges included fourth-degree assault, second-degree bias crime, and harassment.
Witnesses reported that one protester was dragged to the ground by officers before being released and later rejoining the demonstration. Another individual was taken into custody after pepper balls were fired into the crowd, prompting a series of physical altercations between protesters and law enforcement.
Officials said no life-threatening injuries were reported, though several people were treated at the scene for eye and skin irritation.
From Celebration to Confrontation
Earlier in the day, the “No Kings” rally drew an estimated 40,000 attendees, including counter-protesters. Organizers described the event as a “celebration of democracy and dissent,” featuring DJs, banners, and speeches calling for accountability in government.
But as the sun set, the once-celebratory scene transformed. Confrontations erupted between a few hundred remaining protesters and federal officers stationed near the ICE facility. Witnesses described shouting, smoke, and confusion as law enforcement cleared the area.
National Tensions Heighten Local Unrest
Saturday’s events came amid renewed conflict between Oregon state officials and the Trump administration over federal involvement in local protests. President Donald Trump recently reiterated his willingness to deploy the National Guard to Portland if demonstrations “threaten public order.”
The administration’s position has led to legal disputes between federal authorities and state leaders, who argue that the presence of armed federal agents only worsens tensions in the city.
Despite the clashes, rally organizers vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations, emphasizing that their message of resistance and unity would not be silenced by force.
“We came together to dance, not to be attacked,” one participant said. “But we’re not going anywhere.”