Immigration Protest at Texas Capitol Ends in Chaos as Police Deploy Tear Gas

A protest against federal immigration enforcement turned chaotic Monday night in downtown Austin, with police using tear gas and pepper spray to disperse people near the J.J. Pickle Federal Building. The altercation, which followed a bigger, peaceful march at the Texas Capitol, resulted in several arrests.

The Austin chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation planned the protest in response to recent federal immigration raids, which have provoked indignation in immigrant communities around the United States, particularly in cities such as Los Angeles.

Hundreds gathered outside the Capitol's south gates, screaming in support of immigrant rights and condemning US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The event then went east, with attendees marching to the neighboring Pickle Building, which houses the ICE offices.

While organizers eventually led the mass of participants back to the Capitol to end the event officially, a smaller group of protesters stayed near the Federal Building. Around 8:30 p.m., police directed the remaining crowd to leave the area.

When the demonstrators refused to leave, officers armed with riot control equipment formed a line at the intersection of East 8th Street and San Jacinto Boulevard. At about 8:50 p.m., authorities issued a final warning before discharging at least three tear gas canisters. Protesters fled down Congress Avenue, and by 9:15 p.m., roughly 30 had gathered at the Capitol gates.

The Austin American-Statesman reported arrests, but the precise number is unknown. Police stated the dispersion was necessary due to public safety concerns, citing obstruction and reluctance to follow lawful commands.

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis confirmed to the Statesman on Tuesday morning that her department did not use pepper spray or tear gas to disperse protesters. The Texas Department of Public Safety used the said materials, she claimed.

The rally underscores rising national tensions about immigration enforcement, particularly in towns with strong sanctuary policies. As the political discussion intensifies, advocacy groups are urging accountability and a renewed focus on immigrant rights.