Federal agents in Washington state detained Manuel Lozano on June 4 after he allegedly warned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers that he possessed an AR‑15‑style rifle and 60 rounds of ammunition.. The arrest comes as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) documents a dramatic spike in threats and assaults against its personnel in 2026.

Manuel Lozano’s June 4 arrest in Yakima

According to the DHS press release , Lozano fled from ICE agents in May, abandoning a truck that was later located at a residence linked to him in Yakima, Washington. when Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents approached the home, they saw Lozano holding a visible pistol and heard him say, “I’ve obtained soething for you,” before moving to the rear of the house. He then allegedly told agents, “I have 60 rounds and have enough to smoke all you,” and referenced an AR‑15‑style rifle.

HSI returned on June 4 to execute an arrest warrant. A search of the property uncovered two firearms, firearm parts, and mixed ammunition, leading to a charge of threatening a federal law‑enforcement officer.

DHS reports an 8,000% surge in ICE death threats in 2026

The agency’s latest statistics show an 8,000% increase in death threats against ICE officers, a 1,300% rise in assaults, and a 3,300% jump in vehicle‑based attacks. These figures, cited by DHS officials, underscore a broader pattern of intimidation that has intensified since the start of the year.

Experts note that the surge aligns with heightened political rhetoric around immigration enforcement, though the exact drivers remain under investigation.

HSI agents recover two firearms and ammunition at Lozano’s home

During the June 4 search, agents found a pistol, an AR‑15‑style rifle, and enough ammunition to potentially cause significant harm. The discovery suggests that Lozano’s threats were not idle posturing but backed by tangible firepower.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that the seizure demonstrates the real danger faced by front‑line officers, reinforcing the department’s call for stricter security protocols.

Secretary Mullin’s zero‑tolerance stance after the arrest

DHS Secretary Mark Wayne Mullin reiterated a “zero‑tolerance” policy, stating that anyone who threatens or endangers department officers will be “prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis echoed the sentiment, noting that the men and women of ICE are simply “doing their jobs and enforcing the laws passed by Congress.”

According to the statement, the department will continue to pursue individuals who target its personnel, highlighting the legal consequences of such conduct.

Unverified claim about Lozano’s illegal‑immigrant status

The source describes Lozano as an “illegal immigrant,” but no immigration court documents have been released to confirm his status. This detail remains uncorroborated, and officials have not clarified whether his immigration case influenced the investigation.

Who will testify about the alleged AR‑15‑style rifle?

The indictment does not yet reveal whether forensic experts will be called to verify the weapon’s classification.. As the case moves forward,the court’s handling of the firearm evidence could set a precedent for future prosecutions of threats against federal officers.