Federal agents used tear gas during a confrontation with protesters in Salem on Saturday, Oct. 10, after a group blocked vehicles near Lancaster Drive and Sunnyview Road, according to Salem police and the Department of Homeland Security. In a statement released Monday, DHS said protesters on foot and in vehicles prevented agents from leaving the area. The agency alleged that people struck government vehicles with rocks and baseball bats and threatened officers and the public, causing significant damage. The statement did not provide details about the extent of the damage or identify anyone arrested. Salem police said they received reports of a large group blocking Immigration and Customs Enforcement vehicles and reports that federal agents used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Several 911 callers reported eye irritation and difficulty breathing after the incident. Police said they had no advance knowledge of ICE’s activity and do not coordinate with ICE operations. The department said the incident remains under investigation. DHS said its officers are trained in de-escalation and use the minimum force necessary in dangerous situations. The agency also said people who assault or obstruct officers may face arrest and prosecution.