At a Glance
- Armed federal agents blocked traffic with unmarked vehicles near 11th Street and Maple Avenue around 11 a.m.
- One witness saw about 10 agents as people ran and screamed during the operation.
- Mayor Karen Bass condemned the show of force, citing recent ICE-related shootings in Los Angeles and Minneapolis.
- Why it matters: The raid heightens tensions between city leaders and federal immigration enforcement amid nationwide calls to remove ICE from urban areas.
An apparent immigration enforcement operation unfolded in Los Angeles’ Fashion District Thursday morning as armed federal agents sealed off streets with unmarked vehicles.
Chaos Erupts at 11th and Maple
The scene erupted at approximately 11 a.m. near 11th Street and Maple Avenue. Angel, a worker in the area, told News Of Losangeles that people began running and screaming as agents moved in.
“It was chaotic,” Angel said, adding that he counted about 10 agents participating in the action.
Fashion District Responds
Representatives from the LA Fashion District issued a statement acknowledging the “federal activity” and reassuring local businesses.
“We understand that moments like this can feel unsettling, and we want our community to know that we are aware and engaged,” the statement read. “We are working closely with our City leadership, and our team is fully focused on supporting the businesses and people who make this District thrive.”
Mayor Bass Slams ICE Tactics
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed alarm over “multiple reports” of immigration enforcement in the Fashion District.
“This show of force by ICE is particularly troubling given the recent ICE escalation and violence in American cities, including the fatal shootings of Keith Porter Jr. by an off-duty ICE agent on New Year’s Eve here in Los Angeles and Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis,” Bass said.
She added: “Angelenos – and the Americans across the country – have made it clear: we want ICE out of our cities.”
Unclear Outcomes
Authorities have not confirmed whether anyone was detained during Thursday’s operation. News Of Losangeles contacted the Department of Homeland Security for comment, but no immediate response was provided.
History of Raids in the District
LA’s Fashion District has been a previous target for federal immigration actions. In June 2025, the federal government conducted enforcement operations throughout the area, resulting in dozens of detentions from workplaces.
Key Takeaways
- Federal agents conducted an unannounced immigration operation in the heart of LA’s Fashion District.
- Witnesses describe a chaotic scene with armed officers and frightened bystanders.
- Mayor Bass links the raid to broader concerns over ICE conduct and recent deadly encounters.
