Car RAMS Protest – City PROMISES Crackdown
A woman was left with a broken arm and facial injuries after a car plowed through an anti-ICE protest in Chicago, raising questions about safety at public demonstrations as more are planned in coming days.
At a Glance
- Heather Blair was injured when a maroon sedan accelerated through protesters at Monroe Street and Wabash Avenue in Chicago
- The incident occurred during Tuesday’s anti-ICE protest, which drew thousands of participants
- At least 17 arrests were made during the demonstration, with four individuals facing felony charges
- The driver, who was seen earlier among protesters with spray paint, fled the scene and is still being sought
- City officials are planning additional security measures for future protests
Chaos Erupts as Vehicle Speeds Through Protesters
A protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies in downtown Chicago turned violent Tuesday evening when a driver in a maroon sedan accelerated through the crowd, injuring at least one demonstrator. The incident occurred around 6:19 p.m. at the intersection of Monroe Street and Wabash Avenue, where thousands had gathered to voice opposition to recent immigration enforcement actions. Video footage captured the moment when the vehicle surged forward, forcing protesters to scramble for safety.
Heather Blair, who was positioned near the rear of the demonstration with her husband, became the primary victim of the vehicular assault. She suffered a broken arm and facial injuries when the car struck her. The driver, described as a woman wearing a yellow tank top, had reportedly been seen among the protesters with a can of spray paint shortly before getting behind the wheel and driving into the crowd.
Victim Recounts Terrifying Experience
Blair, who was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital for treatment, described the suddenness of the attack in stark terms. “The next thing I know I’m being dragged to the sidewalk,” Blair recalled. “I was feeling pain in my arm and just like ‘what happened?’” The injured protester’s confusion mirrors the chaos that enveloped the scene as fellow demonstrators rushed to her aid while others attempted to document the incident and the vehicle’s flight from the area.
CBS Skywatch captured footage of the maroon vehicle as it fled the scene, driving into oncoming traffic and making dangerous maneuvers to escape. The car eventually broke down on State Street in the South Loop, though the driver managed to restart the vehicle and continue her escape. As of the latest reports, police are still investigating the incident and searching for the suspect, who faces potential charges of aggravated battery and other serious offenses.
City Response and Future Protest Safety
In the wake of the incident, Chicago officials are taking steps to prevent similar occurrences at future demonstrations. Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Police Department have announced plans to deploy additional resources to ensure public safety at upcoming protests. These measures may include barricades to prevent vehicles from entering protest zones and increased coordination between protest organizers and law enforcement. The Chicago Police Department has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting First Amendment rights while ensuring the safety of all participants and bystanders.
Arrests and Continuing Demonstrations
Beyond the vehicular incident, the protest resulted in at least 17 arrests, according to Chicago police. Four individuals face felony charges, including aggravated battery of a peace officer, while ten others were charged with misdemeanors. Despite the violence and arrests, organizers are moving forward with plans for additional demonstrations, including one at Daley Plaza, as larger-scale immigration enforcement actions are anticipated in the coming weeks.
Despite her injuries, Blair has expressed continued support for the cause. Though her physical condition will prevent her from attending in person, she plans to support future demonstrations through friends. Her determination reflects the broader resolve of protest organizers, who are emphasizing non-violence and cooperation with authorities to ensure that their message can be delivered safely and effectively in the face of escalating tensions surrounding immigration enforcement policies.
