A heated confrontation broke out in Worcester, Massachusetts, on Thursday during an immigration arrest involving federal agents. A group of about 25 residents attempted to block the vehicle as officers detained a woman.
Witnesses recorded the incident on Eureka Street, where chants of “Don’t take the mother!” and “No warrant!” filled the air. Several women stood in front of the SUV, placing their hands on the hood to stop it from leaving.
Police Intervene as Emotions Boil Over
Tensions escalated when a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent began pushing a bystander while trying to clear a path. The situation grew more chaotic until Worcester police officers arrived at the scene around 11:13 a.m.
Officers declared the crowd an unlawful assembly and warned that arrests would follow if people didn’t move. After police intervention, the vehicle carrying the woman was able to leave the area.
Teen Arrested After Confronting SUV With Newborn
Police say a teenage girl holding a newborn baby stood in front of the SUV to block it. Officers told her she was putting the child in danger. She eventually handed the baby to another person but then kicked the vehicle and tried to block it again.
Officers detained the teen, charging her with Reckless Endangerment of a Child, Disorderly Conduct, Disturbing the Peace, and Resisting Arrest. The infant was unharmed.
Second Woman Accused of Throwing Liquid at Officers
While officers handled the teen’s arrest, another woman interfered. Police identified her as 38-year-old Ashley Spring of Worcester. According to the report, she pushed officers and splashed them with an unknown liquid.
She was arrested and charged with Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Disorderly Conduct, and Interfering with a Police Officer.
Mayor Condemns Arrest Before Mother’s Day
Mayor Joseph Petty shared his frustration over the incident on social media, saying he had not been informed by ICE in advance.
“I am devastated to hear about the separation of a family, especially with Mother’s Day around the corner,” Petty posted.
“The fear of ICE tearing families apart is real for many in our city. We cannot let this happen here.”
Petty said he asked the City Manager for a full report and reaffirmed Worcester’s commitment to being a welcoming city.
ICE Remains Silent, Investigation Ongoing
As of Friday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement had not responded to media requests for comment. Worcester police said the incident remains under investigation, and more charges may follow.
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