DALLAS, Texas — Federal officials have confirmed that 29-year-old Joshua Jahn was the gunman behind Wednesday’s deadly sniper attack outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in Dallas. The attack left four people dead, including Jahn, and has reignited debate over the safety of federal sites and detainee operations.
Deadly Shooting Outside ICE Facility
The violence erupted late Wednesday morning as ICE agents and contractors were conducting a routine detainee transfer. Witnesses reported sudden, rapid gunfire striking windows and vehicles, sparking panic both inside and outside the facility.
By the time law enforcement officers engaged the suspect, three victims had been fatally shot and several others wounded. Jahn was also killed at the scene. Injured individuals were rushed to area hospitals for treatment.
“I thought it was fireworks at first, then everyone started running,” said Carlos Martinez, who was waiting nearby for a friend. “People were ducking, officers were yelling, it was terrifying.”
Gunman Identified
Investigators confirmed Jahn’s identity late Wednesday night after contacting his family. Officials say he acted alone, though the FBI and Department of Homeland Security are leading an in-depth probe to uncover his motives and determine whether others may have influenced his actions.
“This was an intentional assault on a federal facility,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough. “Our investigation will look closely at planning, weapons acquisition, and any signals that might have been overlooked.”
Security Under Scrutiny
The incident has raised new concerns about the vulnerability of federal facilities, particularly during detainee transfers, when officers and staff operate in more exposed conditions.
ICE announced an immediate review of perimeter security, transport protocols, and surveillance systems across all U.S. locations.
“Even though events like this are rare, they reveal weaknesses that must be addressed quickly,” said former DHS security consultant Mark Caldwell.
Local Reaction
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson condemned the attack, calling it a “horrific act of violence that has taken innocent lives and shaken our city.”
Community leaders and immigrant advocacy groups also weighed in, warning against further escalation of tensions around immigration enforcement and urging federal and local leaders to improve security while protecting civil rights.
Victims Not Yet Named
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the three victims killed in the shooting, saying notifications to their families are still underway. All are believed to have been federal employees or contractors assisting with the detainee transfer.
The ICE office remained closed Thursday as federal agents processed evidence at the scene. Nearby schools and businesses that were temporarily locked down have since reopened.
Continuing Investigation
Investigators are analyzing surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and Jahn’s digital footprint, searching for possible motives and connections. Officials say a clearer picture of his background and intent should emerge in the coming days.
“This tragedy has left deep scars on our community,” Sheriff Marian Brown said. “We owe it to the victims, their families, and the public to uncover the truth and strengthen protections moving forward.