Ex-Marine sought after ambush that injured Texas law enforcement officers

In the United States, a Blue Alert has been issued for Benjamin Hanil Song, a 32-year-old former U.S. Marine Corps reservist, who is currently at large following a highly coordinated ambush on law enforcement. This incident transpired at approximately 10:30 p.m. on July 4 at the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas. During the attack, a group consisting of 10 to 12 individuals targeted ICE officers with fireworks, vandalized property, and fired upon law enforcement, resulting in severe injuries, including a police officer being shot in the neck. They carried out their aggressive act while dressed in black military-style clothing and launched a surprise assault against the unarmed correctional officers responding to the vandalism. The seriousness of this event led to the involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety, and ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Office, among others. Benjamin Hanil Song is now charged with three counts of attempted murder of a federal officer and three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a violent crime. He is accused of playing a significant role in the shooting, reportedly using two AR-15 style rifles to fire at both correctional officers and the responding police officer from a distance. In response to this violent incident, authorities have initiated a manhunt, as Song poses a significant threat and is considered to be armed and dangerous. A vehicle linked to him was discovered abandoned shortly after the attack, raising concerns about his whereabouts and intentions. Local authorities described the ambush as a premeditated attack, with suspects utilizing graffiti as a means to lure officers outside the facility. This tactic was apparently aimed at creating a diversion while shooters positioned in strategic locations opened fire on the officers. Four of the firearms recovered from the scene, including the two AR-style rifles associated with Song, were reportedly purchased by him. The ramifications of this violent act are severe; if convicted, Song and his co-defendants may face lengthy prison sentences, with a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life imprisonment. The FBI is actively pursuing leads related to Song's arrest, offering a reward of up to $25,000 for assistance in locating him. The coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies reflect the seriousness of the threats posed in this incident and underscore the dangers faced by officers during their duty to maintain public safety, especially in volatile situations such as these. As the investigation unfolds, the authorities are collecting evidence and testimonies from the nine other suspects already charged in connection to this attack. Each participant in this disturbing event faces similar charges, emphasizing the collective and coordinated nature of the ambush that endangered lives and showcased a troubling escalation of violent anti-ICE sentiments. Awareness and vigilance among the public are now more crucial than ever as authorities seek justice for the harmed officers and ensure community safety regarding such brazen criminal acts. The incident raises important questions about law enforcement safety and the increasing risks that officers face in the line of duty, particularly in relation to the ongoing national conversations surrounding immigration enforcement and public resistance to such actions.