Federal Agents Target Kings Mountain Factory

kings mountain ice raid, In a surprise operation, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raided the Buckeye Fire Equipment Company in Kings Mountain on Wednesday, June 25. The early afternoon raid resulted in the arrest of 30 individuals, according to an official ICE news release.

The raid was conducted under a federal search warrant as part of an investigation into allegations of aggravated identity theft and other potential federal crimes. ICE did not publicly disclose the names, nationalities, or specific charges of the individuals taken into custody.

ICE Cites Serious Identity Fraud Concerns

Cardell Morant, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Charlotte, explained the reasoning behind the enforcement action. “Identity fraud is not a victimless crime; it fuels a range of criminal activity and puts innocent people at risk,” Morant stated.

The agency emphasized that the investigation was based on credible intelligence and is part of an ongoing effort to target fraudulent employment and document crimes that can lead to broader security risks.

Surprise Raid Shocks Employees

Employees at the Buckeye plant were caught off guard. Agents arrived without notice around 1 p.m., according to eyewitnesses. One worker began live-streaming the event on Facebook, capturing scenes of agents on the factory floor.

In the video, officers are seen in tactical gear—some with “police” vests, others carrying rifles. The livestream was cut short when, according to employee Eric Pinon, an agent grabbed his phone. “He told everyone to turn off their phones or face being detained,” Pinon told Queen City News.

Employees were reportedly held in a confined room for nearly an hour before being interviewed individually. Those who could verify their legal status were given blue wristbands.

Phones Confiscated, Door Smashed

ICE later released an edited video of the enforcement action. It shows agents presenting the search warrant at the front desk, collecting phones and personal items, smashing a door window with a pickaxe, and escorting individuals out of the facility in handcuffs.

The agency stated that this operation followed all necessary legal procedures and that safety protocols were in place to protect everyone involved.

Families and Protesters Gather Outside

As news of the Kings Mountain ICE raid spread, family members of employees rushed to the scene. Some carried protest signs while others waited anxiously for updates. A 16-year-old girl said her mother had called shortly after the raid began, but contact was lost soon after.

“I don’t know if she’s in custody, or if she’s coming home tonight or ever,” the girl said through tears. Emotions ran high as other relatives and supporters joined outside the facility, demanding answers.

Buckeye Fire Equipment Company Silent

Buckeye Fire Equipment Company, a private manufacturer of fire suppression products, did not respond to media inquiries as of Thursday. The company has operated in Kings Mountain for decades and employs dozens of local residents.

Their silence has sparked frustration among some community members, who say more transparency is needed during such a large-scale federal investigation.

Massive Multi-Agency Involvement

The raid involved a wide network of federal and local law enforcement partners. According to ICE, participating agencies included:

• FBI

• U.S. Marshals Service

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection

• IRS Criminal Investigations

• DEA

• ATF

• North Carolina National Guard

• Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General

• Kings Mountain Police Department

• Gaston County Sheriff’s Office

• Gaston County Police Department

Despite this massive presence, the Kings Mountain Police Department clarified on social media that their role was minimal and focused on potential state-level charges.

Ongoing Investigation with Uncertain Outcomes

As of now, no formal charges have been announced. ICE maintains that the arrests are tied to a broader criminal probe into identity theft and immigration-related crimes. Legal proceedings are expected to follow in federal court.

While community members await more information, the Kings Mountain ICE raid has reignited debates over immigration enforcement, workplace raids, and the treatment of undocumented workers.

The story continues to unfold as legal advocates, federal officials, and families demand clarity and justice in the days ahead.

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