PORTLAND, OREGON — A new wave of outrage and sorrow has gripped Portland following a violent escalation during one of the city’s ongoing protests, where a demonstrator was allegedly shot in the eye by a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officer. The incident, which occurred late Saturday night near the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse in downtown Portland, has once again brought national attention to the fraught relationship between federal authorities and local protest movements.
Incident Sparks Shock and Anger
According to eyewitnesses and local medics, the protester—identified by friends and legal observers as a 26-year-old Portland resident—was struck in the face by what is believed to have been an impact munition fired by a DHS officer deployed to the scene. The projectile reportedly caused severe trauma to the protester’s right eye, leading to emergency hospitalization and likely permanent vision loss.
Cell phone video from the chaotic scene shows protesters gathered near the federal courthouse, chanting and holding signs, when a sudden barrage of non-lethal munitions was deployed into the crowd. Amid the smoke, screams, and confusion, several protesters can be seen rushing to the aid of the injured individual, whose face was visibly bloodied and swollen.
“They were just standing there, yelling chants like everyone else,” said one witness, who declined to be named out of fear of retaliation. “Then we heard a pop, and suddenly they dropped to the ground, clutching their face. There was blood everywhere. It was horrifying.”
Federal Force Deployed Amid Renewed Protests
The confrontation occurred during a protest sparked by renewed calls for police reform and federal accountability in the wake of controversial arrests and use-of-force incidents nationwide. In Portland, such demonstrations have persisted for years, often intensifying when federal agents are involved.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, federal officers were present to protect federal property and personnel. A DHS spokesperson acknowledged the incident but stopped short of confirming specific details, stating only that “an internal review is underway to determine the nature of the engagement and the munition used.”
Portland city officials have expressed concern over the federal presence, with Mayor Ted Wheeler stating Sunday morning, “Our city has seen too many nights of unnecessary violence. If these reports are true, it is unacceptable. The people of Portland have the right to protest without fear of being maimed by the very institutions sworn to protect civil liberties.”
A Community Reeling, and Demanding Justice
The shooting has sparked immediate calls for accountability from local advocacy organizations, legal experts, and the broader public. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Oregon condemned the alleged use of force in a statement, calling it a “grotesque and disproportionate response to peaceful protest” and urging a full, independent investigation.
“This is a horrifying reminder of what happens when unaccountable federal forces are allowed to operate with military-grade weapons in civilian settings,” said ACLU spokesperson Daniela Rivas. “This young person’s life is permanently changed. We demand answers, transparency, and consequences.”
In the hours following the incident, hundreds of supporters gathered outside the hospital where the protester is being treated, holding candles and signs bearing messages like “Justice for the Wounded” and “Stop Federal Violence.” Several local activists shared emotional speeches, urging continued resistance and support for the injured demonstrator.
Legal Action and Civil Rights Questions Ahead
Civil rights attorneys representing the injured protester have already indicated that legal action is imminent. “We are looking into all available avenues—civil and constitutional—to hold the federal government accountable,” said attorney Monica Telford, who is leading the legal team. “This was not a mistake. It was the direct result of a systemic disregard for the rights and safety of American citizens.”
Portland has previously been a flashpoint in the national conversation about federal overreach, especially following the summer of 2020, when DHS agents were deployed to Portland without local consent and carried out unmarked arrests of protesters. The return of such tactics has sparked alarm among residents and elected leaders alike.
Call for De-escalation and Healing
As the protest movement regroups, many are calling not only for justice in this specific incident but also for a reassessment of federal authority and the tactics used during demonstrations. Local clergy, civil rights leaders, and mental health professionals are urging a community-wide effort to support those traumatized by recent violence.
“We can’t normalize this,” said Rev. James Harper of the Portland Interfaith Coalition. “Protest should never end with someone losing an eye. We are talking about young people exercising their First Amendment rights. Enough is enough.”
Meanwhile, the protester remains in stable condition, according to family members, but faces a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally.
What’s Next
The Portland Police Bureau and local oversight bodies have pledged cooperation with the investigation. Several Oregon lawmakers have also requested congressional hearings on the use of federal force in cities like Portland.
As tensions continue to simmer, the city finds itself again at a crossroads—between its long tradition of activism and the increasingly aggressive presence of federal law enforcement. For many residents, the latest injury is not just a tragedy, but a symbol of a deeper conflict that remains unresolved.
If you or someone you know was present at the June 14 demonstration and witnessed the shooting, Portland Legal Observers ask you to come forward. Anonymous tips can be sent to the Portland Civil Rights Hotline.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
