Tukwila Police officers assisted federal law enforcement on Saturday afternoon, June 14, 2025, after a group of demonstrators blocked the entrance to a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) facility, some carrying makeshift shields and reportedly damaging property, authorities said.

Police said that at around 3 p.m. Saturday, officers were requested by Federal Protective Services (FPS) police to help clear the roadway in front of the DHS facility after they became barricaded inside by protesters blocking the south entrance and exit.

According to a Tukwila Police statement, some demonstrators had removed street signs and posts to create a blockade, with reports of spray-painted property nearby.

Officers also noted that many individuals in the crowd were dressed in all black and carrying shields.

Tukwila officers, who have jurisdiction over the surrounding streets and sidewalks, gave repeated commands via loudspeaker for protesters to clear the drive. While many complied and continued their demonstration from the sidewalk, a contingent refused to leave the roadway.

“As officers began clearing the barricades, numerous individuals involved in the demonstration hurled frozen water bottles and rocks at our officers,” the department stated. “Officers were forced to deploy pepper spray and PepperBalls to successfully clear the drive.”

Tukwila Police emphasized that officers were not involved in any immigration enforcement activities and do not assist in questioning or detaining individuals based on immigration status or nationality.

“We would like to reiterate that our officers do not participate in immigration enforcement or otherwise assist in questioning or detaining individuals based on their immigration status or nationality in accordance with our policy and Washington State law,” police said.

DHS personnel also assisted in clearing the drive.

Tukwila officers departed the scene after the roadway was cleared. No arrests were made by Tukwila police and no injuries were reported.

Here’s raw video courtesy KOMO News (WARNING: Contains graphic content & language):