FBI raises reward to $20K in Atlanta ICE building arson case

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The FBI has increased the reward to $20,000 for information leading to the arrest of a suspect in an arson attack on a federal Downtown Atlanta building.

Ronald Watson, who authorities say has also gone by the names Sarah Watson, Miranda Kyle or Emily Smith, is wanted in connection with an attack on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building during the summer of 2020.

Watson should be considered armed and dangerous, the FBI said. The agency previously offered a $10,000 reward for information on Watson.

According to a federal indictment, shortly before midnight on July 25, 2020, a group of protesters wearing masks and dark clothing jumped the fences of the ICE building and vandalized it.

Law enforcement reported that protesters were throwing rocks, Molotov cocktails and cinder blocks, causing more than $78,000 in damage to the building.

Watson was identified as a suspected vandal using evidence from a prior conviction in Oregon, where he was found guilty in January 2023 of assaulting a public safety officer.

Authorities said Watson’s social media featured several anti-ICE posts, including a graphic image of an agent about to be struck in the head with a baseball bat.

In July 2025, an arrest warrant was issued for Watson. He is charged with damage to federal property.

Officials warn that Watson, who has ties to Atlanta, Wyoming, Washington, California, Montana and Portland, Oregon, may have changed his appearance and may be wearing women’s clothing.

This is a developing story. Stay with Atlanta News First for updates.