A tense situation unfolded at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Thursday when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrived seeking access to the stadium's parking lots. The Los Angeles Dodgers organization confirmed that they denied ICE entry to the grounds.
Reports surfaced on social media depicting a caravan of vehicles, identified by Fox 11 Los Angeles as belonging to the Department of Homeland Security, congregating at various parking lot entrances. A small group of protestors gathered at Gate E, voicing their opposition to the presence of ICE officers outside the stadium. The Los Angeles Police Department eventually arrived on the scene.
The Dodgers issued a statement confirming the incident, stating, "This morning, ICE agents came to Dodger Stadium and requested permission to access the parking lots. They were denied entry to the grounds by the organization." The team reassured fans that the scheduled game against the San Diego Padres would proceed as planned.
The incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions between the Trump administration's aggressive immigration policies and cities, such as Los Angeles, that aim to protect the due process rights of their residents. Los Angeles has been a specific target of recent ICE raids, triggering widespread protests and responses from both the LAPD and Los Angeles County Sheriffs.
While many Dodgers players remained silent on the matter, veteran utility player Kiké Hernández took to Instagram to express his support for Latinos who have been affected by ICE activity. Manager Dave Roberts stated he lacked sufficient information to comment. The team faced criticism for its perceived lack of support after R&B singer Nezza's performance of the national anthem in Spanish. Reports indicated that the Dodgers discouraged her from singing in Spanish.
In response to the criticism, a Dodgers spokesperson announced plans to provide assistance to immigrant communities impacted by recent events in Los Angeles. The ICE appearance at Dodger Stadium occurred barely 12 hours later.
Given the Dodgers' significant Latino fan base, the situation has attracted attention from right-wing influencers. One influencer suggested that an ICE raid at Dodger Stadium would be "amazing." The Dodgers are set to host a game against the San Diego Padres, preceded by a celebrity softball game. A large crowd is anticipated for the event.