DALLAS, Texas – A deadly sniper attack outside a federal facility in Dallas left four people dead, including the gunman, early Wednesday morning. The shooting targeted an unmarked van transporting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainees, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred at approximately 6:40 a.m. on September 24, near the 8100 block of North Stemmons Freeway. According to investigators, the assailant positioned himself on the rooftop of a nearby building and opened fire as the van entered the ICE compound. Multiple rounds struck the vehicle, hitting three detainees inside. One victim died at the scene, and two others were rushed to a local hospital. By midday, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that a second detainee had succumbed to injuries. The third remains in critical condition.
Law enforcement officials reported that the shooter, described as a white male armed with a rifle, took his own life as officers closed in. Dallas Police confirmed his death in a statement but withheld his identity pending formal confirmation. Authorities noted that while they believe they know who the suspect is, his name will not be released until next of kin have been notified.
Both the FBI and DHS have joined the Dallas Police Department in the ongoing investigation. Officials are working to determine how the gunman accessed the rooftop and whether he had any connections to the detainees or the facility. The attack, which law enforcement experts are calling a major security breach, has raised concerns about vulnerabilities during detainee transport and at federal installations nationwide.
Local leaders quickly responded to the tragedy. Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson is expected to address the public in a press conference later today alongside police officials. Congressman Marc Veasey (D–TX) issued a statement expressing condolences, calling the shooting “a senseless act of violence against vulnerable individuals.” He added that his office would continue to keep the victims and their families in his prayers.
As the investigation continues, federal and local officials are expected to review security protocols for detainee transport operations and access points around sensitive facilities. The shocking nature of the attack has left the Dallas community shaken, as questions mount about the gunman’s motive and how such an assault was able to unfold in a heavily secured area.