ALVARADO, Texas — A man has been charged with tampering with evidence in connection to a violent ambush on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. This incident took place on July 4, when a group of attackers unleashed gunfire and fireworks at the Prairieland Detention Center, raising serious concerns over domestic terrorism.
Daniel Rolando Sanchez Estrada, a green card holder from Mexico and a former DACA recipient, was reportedly linked to the attack through phone calls made by one of the individuals arrested at the scene. Authorities allege that Sanchez attempted to dispose of documents showcasing anti-government and anti-Trump sentiments after the assault. Witnesses indicated that a group of about 10 to 12 individuals participated in vandalizing vehicles and aiming gunfire at law enforcement officers outside the facility.
Upon his arrest, Sanchez was discovered to possess what ICE officials termed “insurrectionist propaganda.” They noted that the material suggested a significant threat level, categorizing it as among the most severe domestic terrorism dangers. Sanchez acquired his green card during the Biden administration after initially being granted protective status under the DACA program.
Marciela Rueda was among those captured near the detention center, reportedly dressed in military-style gear while attempting to flee the chaotic scene. Court documents suggest that she made parallel phone calls from jail to coordinate with Sanchez, instructing him to manage her vehicle, which investigators claim served as a staging area for the ambush.
Sanchez’s actions before his arrest included transporting suspicious boxes that later drew the attention of federal agents. Following a surveillance operation, officials observed him unloading a box at an apartment complex, which contained handwritten documents focused on tactics for inciting civil unrest.
Further investigation revealed that Sanchez is married to one of the co-conspirators in the ambush. This attack has prompted extensive scrutiny, revealing a network of individuals charged with attempted murder of federal officers, including Rueda and several others, all identified as U.S. citizens.
Authorities have also issued a warrant for a twelfth suspect, Benjamin Hanil Song, who is still at large. According to court filings, Song allegedly purchased several firearms used in the attack, including an AR-15-style rifle. Law enforcement apprehended another suspect, identified as Bradford Morris, while he was fleeing in a vehicle loaded with firearms and ballistic gear.
During the ambush on the ICE facility, an Alvarado police officer sustained a gunshot wound but is expected to recover. As law enforcement continues to pursue lead suspects, investigations into their connections and intentions reveal significant implications for national security.