DURHAM, N.C. – Shoppers at Compare Foods on Avondale Drive in Durham experienced unease following rumors of an ICE raid, which were later confirmed to be a hoax. The incident involved a truck resembling an ICE vehicle, complete with what appeared to be the agency’s logo, and an individual in uniform, driving around the store premises. This prompted immediate speculation and fear within the community about an immigration raid, which Compare Foods Durham Nc management and local authorities have clarified was entirely unfounded.
Surveillance footage captured images of the truck, which quickly circulated on social media, amplifying anxiety among residents. Rosie De Leon, a Durham resident originally from Mexico who was shopping at Compare Foods Durham NC, voiced her concern: “It’s sad people would try and take advantage of the situation and the fear within the community right now, and these kinds of antics only embolden people to create more panic in the public.” Her statement reflects the heightened sensitivity within immigrant communities, especially given recent national policy changes.
The incident occurs against a backdrop of policy changes from the Trump administration that expanded the scope of ICE operations, potentially impacting locations previously considered safe zones like schools and churches. This context adds to the community’s apprehension and underscores the impact of such hoaxes. Durham Mayor Leo Williams has publicly reiterated the city’s stance on supporting immigrants, emphasizing the separation between local law enforcement and federal immigration enforcement. “The taxpayers of Durham do not pay the Durham Police Department to be an extension of ICE,” Mayor Williams stated, reinforcing Durham’s commitment to its immigrant population.
Aniya McNeil, a Durham resident, also expressed concern about the broader implications of such fear-mongering tactics, particularly within Hispanic neighborhoods already experiencing heightened anxiety. The incident at Compare Foods Durham NC highlights the delicate climate and the ease with which misinformation can spread, causing significant distress.
Compare Foods Durham NC has responded by filing a police report and is pursuing legal action against those responsible for the hoax. In a statement posted on Instagram, the store emphasized the malicious intent behind the actions, stating, “What’s most concerning is that these actions were carried out with malicious intent, aimed at spreading fear and misinformation in a time when our community is already in a fragile and sensitive climate. Fear, especially in such uncertain times can spread like wildfire.” The store reassured its customers of its commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment at Compare Foods Durham NC.
The Durham Police Department has confirmed awareness of the incident, stating that Compare Foods management reported the situation and the ensuing rumors. They clarified that “The truck involved is not an ICE vehicle” and that they have no further information currently available. Impersonating law enforcement officers, including ICE agents, is a recognized crime, though it remains unclear if charges will be filed in this particular case related to Compare Foods Durham NC. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the impact of misinformation and the importance of community reassurance in sensitive times.
