Minneapolis Family Caught in Tear Gas Scare Amid Protest

Sun Jan 18 2026 00:09:38 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A Minneapolis family's drive home turned traumatic when federal officers deployed tear gas, affecting them and their six children, including an infant.

In a distressing incident in Minneapolis, the Jackson family accidentally became embroiled in a tense protest while driving home. As federal officers clashed with protesters, one officer rolled a tear gas canister under their SUV, causing severe respiratory distress among the family, including a 6-month-old. The family was treated at a local hospital after experiencing the traumatic effects of the gas. This incident highlights the complex interplay of protest and law enforcement in current socio-political climates.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — On their way home from a basketball game, the Jackson family found themselves in a nightmare when a Minneapolis protest turned chaotic. Federal officers, amid clashing with demonstrators, inadvertently inundated their SUV with tear gas, requiring emergency medical attention for several family members, including an infant.

Destiny Jackson, aged 26, recounted the distressing episode, explaining how she initially thought the protest seemed peaceful. However, when officers started issuing orders to disperse the crowd, the situation escalated. After attempting to convince her mother to leave, Destiny’s family faced a terrifying scenario as they were caught in the crossfire.

Amidst the panic, a tear gas canister rolled under their vehicle, causing choking gas to fill the SUV. Parents struggled to comfort their crying children, with the family’s 6-month-old son appearing non-responsive. Emergency responders quickly arrived, treating the family members and transporting them to the hospital where they were stabilized but scared.

The incident has stirred responses from local officials, with the Department of Homeland Security claiming the officers did not specifically target the Jacksons. However, the emotional trauma and frightening threats faced by the family following their ordeal reveal a troubling reality of unrest in Minneapolis.

Destiny reflected on her experience, saying, “I know what was going on. I know what my intentions were.” Her story resonates against the backdrop of broader discussions regarding public safety and accountability in enforcement during protests.