During Fox News’ breaking coverage of the shooting, controversy erupted when host Trey Gowdy speculated on air about possible motives. While discussing the developing situation, Gowdy initially noted that investigators would likely review the suspect’s online activity and interview associates to determine whether the shooter had specifically targeted ICE employees. But he then suggested another possibility — questioning aloud whether the gunman might have been attempting to “implement his own form of due process for these detainees,” a remark many viewers viewed as crossing a line.

The comment triggered swift backlash on social media, with users criticizing Gowdy for floating a scenario that seemed to frame the incident through the lens of political debates over immigration. “Unreal,” one user wrote on X, while another called Gowdy “a total hack,” arguing the speculation was irresponsible while facts were still unclear.

At a later press conference, FBI Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock said early evidence suggested the facility was targeted because of the shooter’s views. Rothrock explained that messages found on ammunition recovered near the suspect were “anti-ICE in nature,” indicating investigators are looking at whether the shooter’s actions were motivated by hostility toward the agency. He also confirmed that at least one victim — in addition to the shooter — had been killed and that no law enforcement officers were injured.

The incident comes amid heightened political tensions surrounding immigration policy and follows reports from the Department of Homeland Security showing a sharp rise in threats against ICE employees over the past several years. DHS noted a 700% increase in threats as of July, a figure that had reportedly climbed to 1,000% by August. As the investigation continues, Rothrock urged the public to provide any information that may assist authorities, emphasizing that federal and local partners are working together to ensure that anyone involved in the attack is held accountable.