ICE Agents’ Presence at Lindenwold Bus Stop Causes Panic Among Children

A recent incident in Lindenwold, New Jersey, raised significant concerns among parents and students when ICE agents were spotted near a bus stop. This event occurred on a typical Tuesday morning, causing panic among elementary school children who were waiting for their school bus.

Details of the Incident

At around 8 a.m., several fourth and fifth graders were gathered at the Woodland Village Apartments bus stop. As ICE agents exited their vehicles, many children were visibly frightened and fled the area. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes as kids ran across sidewalks and parking lots.

Community Reactions

Parents and community members expressed deep concern for the children’s safety. Viki Pearson, a local resident, shared her anger about the situation, emphasizing that such occurrences should not happen, especially around children. Eleven-year-old Valerie Pacheco-Nunez, another local student, described her fear and trauma during the event.

• Valerie Pacheco-Nunez: “I don’t want people to have their parents taken away.”
• Dylan Cruz: “I was literally terrified.”
• Amanda C., bus monitor: “The children were huddled and crying.”

School Response

The Lindenwold School District acted promptly to the alarming situation. Superintendent Dr. Kristin O’Neil reported that all students were accounted for after the distressing incident. The bus driver demonstrated quick thinking by allowing the remaining students to board and returning to locate those who had fled.

Support services were arranged for students upon their arrival at school. Dr. O’Neil reassured parents that the well-being of the children is the school’s foremost priority, and additional staff will oversee morning arrivals and afternoon dismissals to ensure safety.

Government Reaction

As of now, the Department of Homeland Security has not commented on whether the presence of ICE agents at the bus stop was coincidental. The community remains on edge, awaiting further clarification on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Conclusion

The ICE agents’ presence near a children’s bus stop has ignited fear and anxiety within the Lindenwold community. Ongoing support and vigilance are crucial to restoring a sense of safety for the students and their families.