Philadelphia (DNN) An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) vehicle was caught fire due to mechanical issues, according to a statement from the agency. The incident occurred during deportation operations, but no injuries were reported.
The ICE vehicle was in South Philadelphia when it experienced mechanical problems and caught fire. The Philadelphia Fire Department quickly responded to the scene and extinguished the flames. ICE confirmed that the fast response from firefighters and the vehicle’s occupants prevented any injuries.
In a statement, ICE said, on Philadelphia ICE Vehicle
A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement vehicle experienced mechanical issues and caught on fire in South Philadelphia today. The Fire Department extinguished the flames after arriving on the scene. There were no injuries due to the fast response from the fire department and the vehicle’s occupants. The cause of the fire is unknown, but no foul play is suspected at this time.”
The fire comes just weeks after ICE conducted a worksite enforcement operation on January 28 at Complete Autowash in Philadelphia. That operation, based on allegations of labor exploitation, led to the arrest of seven illegal aliens—six from Mexico and one from the Dominican Republic. The individuals were detained pending removal.
Brian McShane, Acting Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations stated, “The successful execution of this worksite enforcement operation underscores our determined commitment to national security and public safety. We were able to apprehend individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States.”
ICE has not yet commented on whether the ICE vehicle fire is related to the recent enforcement actions. The agency is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire Philadelphia ICE Vehicle.
Members of the public with information about the incident or other suspicious activity can contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit a report online.