Authorities in Texas have issued a Blue Alert as the manhunt intensifies for Benjamin Hanil Song, identified as the 12th suspect involved in a violent ambush at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Alvarado on July 4, 2025. Song, a 32-year-old Dallas resident and former U.S. Marine Corps Reservist, is accused of opening fire on law enforcement officers during the attack, which left an Alvarado police officer seriously wounded.
The attack unfolded late on the evening of July 4 at the Prairieland Detention Center, a facility operated by ICE. According to federal investigators, a group of 10 to 12 suspects, clad in military black clothing and body armor, orchestrated a planned ambush. The suspects lured unarmed correctional officers outside the facility, where Song and at least one other assailant were positioned in nearby woods with two AR-15-style rifles. Song allegedly fired approximately 20 to 30 rounds at the officers, targeting two correctional officers and an Alvarado police officer.
The police officer was shot in the neck but is expected to recover. The swift response of nearly 70 law enforcement personnel led to the capture of ten suspects at the scene. However, Song evaded arrest by hiding overnight in the woods near the facility. The FBI has described him as armed and dangerous.
Song faces six charges related to the ambush, including three counts of attempted murder of a federal officer and three counts of discharging a firearm during, in relation to, and in furtherance of a crime of violence. A federal arrest warrant was issued on July 9, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in Fort Worth.
Investigators traced the rifles used in the attack back to Song, who purchased both weapons. One of the rifles was reportedly modified with a binary trigger, a device that can double the rate of fire of a semi-automatic gun, suggesting an aftermarket alteration. Surveillance footage from Dallas-Fort Worth Airport in May 2025 reportedly shows Song, and a white Mercedes-Benz registered to a relative of his was seen near the home of another suspect, Bradford Morris.
Benjamin Hanil Song served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves from 2011 to 2016 but was discharged under other than honorable conditions. His military background and tactical approach during the ambush have raised concerns among law enforcement officials.
In response to the attack, the Texas Department of Public Safety added Song to their 10 Most Wanted Fugitive List. Governor Greg Abbott announced on July 10, 2025, that the Office of the Governor’s Public Safety Office is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to Song’s arrest. Combined with the FBI’s $25,000 reward, the total bounty for tips resulting in his capture reaches $35,000.
Governor Abbott emphasized the seriousness of the crime, stating, "The targeted attacks against our federal law enforcement officers is a crime and must end. Criminals such as Benjamin Hanil Song will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I encourage Texans with information to call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or submit an anonymous tip online. Texas is and always will be a law-and-order state."
Song is described as an Asian male, approximately 5 feet, 6 inches tall, weighing 150 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen in the 1200 Block of Sunflower Lane in Alvarado, Texas. Authorities urge anyone who spots Song to call 9-1-1 immediately or contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Tips can also be submitted digitally at fbi.gov/prairieland or through the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477).
The Blue Alert system, which was activated in this case, is a public safety notification designed to quickly disseminate information about suspects who have seriously injured or killed law enforcement officers. Texas is among 34 states in the U.S. operating such a system, which functions similarly to Amber Alerts for missing children. For a Blue Alert to be issued, specific criteria must be met, including the serious injury or death of a law enforcement officer, a determination that the suspect poses a significant threat to the public, and the availability of identifying details such as vehicle descriptions.
The July 4 ambush at the ICE detention center has sparked widespread concern and a coordinated law enforcement effort. The ten suspects apprehended alongside Song face serious charges, including attempted murder of an officer. They hail from various Texas cities, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Kennedale, Waxahachie, and College Station. If convicted, these individuals could face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson praised the rapid and professional response of law enforcement, noting, "The swift response of nearly 70 law enforcement officers to the site of the shooting hemmed in several of the attackers. The quick action and professionalism of our state and local law enforcement officers in the immediate aftermath of the shooting resulted in the prompt capture of ten of the assailants. Though Song escaped the scene by hiding overnight, he will be relentlessly pursued until he is in custody."
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock echoed the urgency, stating, "Benjamin Hanil Song is wanted by the FBI for his connection to the violent assault that occurred at the Prairieland Detention Center. He is considered armed and dangerous, and we ask that the public contact law enforcement immediately if he is seen. We are committed to apprehending Song and are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to his arrest and conviction."
The incident underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the ongoing challenges in maintaining security at detention facilities. As the search for Song continues, authorities remain vigilant, urging the public to remain alert and to report any sightings or information that could assist in bringing him to justice.
