Armed Federal Agents Raid St. Paul Business, Crowd Gathers Outside

ST. PAUL, MN — Armed federal agents carried out an operation at a building in St. Paul on Tuesday morning, drawing a quickly growing crowd of observers and demonstrators outside.

Agents wearing ICE, FBI, and DEA vests were seen entering and surrounding the Bro-Tex building at 830 N. Hampden Avenue, KARE 11 reported.

Authorities have not yet said what the operation involved.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter said he was on scene Tuesday morning and confirmed that the activity involved an ICE operation, adding that the city is monitoring the situation closely and understands the concern it has raised for workers and families.

"Remember you have rights," Carter said in a statement and linked to a page of resources for immigrants.

"As a reminder, our Saint Paul police officers will always identify themselves. They wear clearly marked SPPD uniforms, display their badges, and, when relevant, produce a warrant. Our officers will help de-escalate situations when possible. And they do not wear face coverings."

As video of the scene spread online, social media users reacted with concern and confusion.

Several commenters said the large federal presence was alarming and described workers inside Bro-Tex as "good people who do not deserve this."

The crowd outside grew louder as agents moved in and out of the building.

Bro-Tex, founded in the 1920s, manufactures and distributes cleaning wipes, towels, and absorbent materials for industries ranging from healthcare to food service.

Patch will update this story when more information becomes available.