ICE raids reported in Downey; councilmembers urge calm

People keep away from tear gas during protests against ICE and immigration raids, in Paramount on Saturday, June 7, 2025. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

DOWNEY — Councilman Mario Trujillo confirmed Saturday that federal immigration authorities were conducting enforcement activity in the city of Downey.

“We have confirmed that a federal agency was in our city and that our [police] department does not participate or assist in immigration enforcement,” Trujillo said in a statement posted to Instagram. He did not specify which neighborhoods were targeted or how many individuals may have been affected.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has not publicly released details about the reported operation. However, social media posts circulated Saturday morning alleging that federal agents were seen arresting workers at a local car wash and outside Home Depot.

Downey resident Brian Chambers posted photos on Facebook of immigration sweeps at Galaxy Car Wash and IHOP on Paramount Boulevard. He said the car wash owner was taken into custody.

Councilman Horacio Ortiz also issued a statement, addressing the growing anxiety within Downey’s immigrant communities.

“I understand the fear and uncertainty this situation may cause, especially for our immigrant families,” Ortiz said. “As someone who comes from an immigrant background myself, I want you to know that my heart is with you. Please remain calm and rely on official sources for updates. I am here to support you and our community in any way I can.”

On Saturday morning, another immigration enforcement action took place at the Home Depot at 6400 Alondra Blvd. in Paramount, drawing crowds that turned over shopping carts and other objects that were left in the street, while federal authorities in riot gear stood by. The street filled with smoke from tear gas canisters, and at least one protester could be seen on the ground bleeding in news footage, though the nature of the apparent injury wasn't clear.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department confirmed that deputies were dispatched at about 11 a.m. Saturday to the Home Depot for traffic control and "general public safety" in response to federal activity there.

City News Service contributed to this report.