Child Recalls Fear During ICE Operation Near New Jersey School Bus Stop

A 10-year-old boy vividly described his fear during an ICE operation near a school bus stop in Lindenwold, New Jersey. The incident occurred on a Thursday morning while students were waiting for their bus. Dylan, a U.S. citizen, recalled the chaos that ensued when his classmates began shouting about ICE.

Fear Grips Students During ICE Operation

The situation escalated when students noticed enforcement vehicles in the area. Dylan recounted, “Out of nowhere, people just start running, saying that ICE is over there, and everybody was running.” He fled home, fearing that ICE agents might pursue him.

Community Response to the Incident

Security footage revealed Dylan anxiously banging on his front door, pleading for his mother to let him inside. The Lindenwold School District confirmed that the operation commenced while fourth- and fifth-graders waited at their bus stop. In a statement, the district acknowledged the incident’s impact: “The presence of multiple enforcement vehicles caused significant fear and confusion.”

• Impact on Students: Several children experienced panic and ran from the bus stop.
• School’s Action: The bus driver worked diligently to ensure all children reached school safely.
• Community Protests: Local residents held demonstrations against ICE operations following the incident.

The district assured families that ICE agents were not present in the school, aiming to alleviate fears. Meanwhile, community members expressed their concerns over the increased ICE activity in the neighborhood.

Counseling Offered to Students

In light of the traumatic experience, the school district is providing counseling services for affected students. Maria, a local resident and U.S. citizen, noted the lasting impact on children, explaining that many are now hesitant to attend school.

New Jersey Representative Donald Norcross called for greater transparency from the Department of Homeland Security. He emphasized that all actions should be clearly communicated to dispel community fears.

Dylan expressed his anxiety about the incident, saying it is difficult to discuss because he worries about the safety of his family. His story highlights the emotional toll such operations can have on young children and their communities.