Violent Riot Erupts Outside St. Paul Federal Courthouse Following Antifa Indictments (Video)

St. Paul, MN – Violent clashes broke out late on June 16, 2026, outside the U.S. District Courthouse in St. Paul as radical protesters, many affiliated with Antifa networks, attempted to storm the building hours after federal authorities announced indictments against 15 Antifa-linked individuals in the Minneapolis area.

Rioters threw rocks, fireworks, bottles, and other projectiles at law enforcement officers, set small fires, and repeatedly charged barricades in an effort to breach the courthouse. Police deployed tear gas, flashbangs, and less-lethal munitions to push back the crowd. Several officers were injured, and multiple rioters were arrested on-site. Property damage included smashed windows on nearby buildings and vandalized vehicles.

The unrest was triggered by the announcement of federal charges against 15 Antifa radicals for a sustained campaign of violence targeting ICE operations. The indictments include conspiracy to commit civil disorder, assault on federal officers, and destruction of government property. Twelve of the defendants have already been arrested in a coordinated sweep.

The protest quickly turned into a riot as demonstrators expressed support for the indicted individuals and opposition to federal immigration enforcement. Encrypted communications and social media were reportedly used to mobilize participants on short notice.

Law enforcement maintained a heavy presence throughout the night to protect the federal building and surrounding area. Officials described the violence as organized and premeditated, with some participants arriving masked and prepared for confrontation.

This incident marks another episode of political violence in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region, long considered a hotspot for Antifa activity. The Trump administration has prioritized cracking down on such domestic extremism, particularly when directed at federal law enforcement carrying out immigration duties.

Investigations into the riot’s organizers and any connections to the indicted Antifa members are ongoing. Additional charges related to the courthouse attack are expected.

The events underscore the heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the willingness of radical groups to resort to violence when their networks face legal accountability. Public safety officials have warned residents to avoid the downtown area as cleanup and investigation efforts continue.