2 shot by federal agent after ‘targeted’ stop, Portland mayor asks ICE to halt operations

Two individuals were wounded in a shooting incident involving a federal agent in Portland, Oregon on Thursday, prompting a call for immigration enforcement operations to be suspended by the mayor until a thorough investigation is conducted.

The Department of Homeland Security reported that the shooting took place during a targeted stop by Border Patrol agents on a vehicle carrying two individuals suspected to be affiliated with the Tren de Aragua gang. The passenger in the vehicle was the specific target of the operation, according to DHS.

DHS stated that when the agents identified themselves to the occupants of the vehicle, the driver allegedly tried to run over the law enforcement officers by weaponizing the vehicle. In response, an agent fired a defensive shot, and the driver fled the scene with the passenger. The situation was described as “evolving” by DHS, which also mentioned that the passenger had been involved in a recent shooting in Portland.

During a press conference, Portland Police Chief Bob Day emphasized that the facts of the case are still unknown, and investigations are ongoing. When asked about the passenger’s potential connection to a previous shooting, the chief refrained from commenting, stating that the identities of the individuals involved have not been confirmed.

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson expressed skepticism towards the federal government’s account of the incident, urging Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to cease all operations in Portland until an impartial investigation is carried out. He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing the concerns of the community.

The condition of the shooting victims remains undisclosed. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield announced the initiation of an investigation into the shooting, focusing on whether federal officers exceeded their legal authority during the encounter. The investigation will involve interviews with witnesses and analysis of video evidence.

The incident, which occurred around 2:18 p.m. local time on Thursday, led to the discovery of two individuals with gunshot wounds by Portland police officers responding to a distress call. The victims were provided medical aid on-site before being transported to a hospital for further treatment.

The shooting location was identified as the 10200 block of Southeast Main Street near a medical office, where the victims initially drove themselves after the incident. The FBI was observed responding to the scene, with Portland police providing support in the investigation.

As tensions ran high following a fatal shooting involving ICE officers in Minneapolis, Police Chief Day urged the public to remain calm and allow for a thorough investigation to unfold. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek echoed the call for transparency from federal authorities, emphasizing the need for collaboration with local law enforcement for a comprehensive inquiry.

Mayor Wilson described the incident as deeply concerning and encouraged the community to respond with unity and resolve rather than violence. He underscored the city’s commitment to justice and urged residents to stand together in safeguarding Portland.

In the aftermath of the shooting, protests erupted outside an ICE facility, resulting in the arrest of at least six individuals as authorities worked to maintain order. Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez expressed his apprehension about the incident and assured the public of a meticulous investigation to uncover the truth.

The situation continues to evolve, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.