Two Shot By Federal Agents in Portland During Immigration Stop
LIVE COVERAGE: At least two people were shot after they tried to run over federal agents during a targeted traffic stop in Portland, Oregon. The agents involved worked with Customs and Border Patrol. The Department of Homeland Security says the occupants were believed to be part of the Tren de Aragua gang. Follow our live coverage below throughout the evening and click here to get my breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox.
Homeland Security Issues Statement
At 2:19 PST, US Border Patrol agents were conducting a targeted vehicle stop in Portland, Oregon. The passenger of the vehicle and target is a Venezuelan illegal alien affiliated with the transnational Tren de Aragua prostitution ring and involved in a recent shooting in Portland. The vehicle driver is believed to be a member of the vicious Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. When agents identified themselves to the vehicle occupants, the driver weaponized his vehicle and attempted to run over the law enforcement agents. Fearing for his life and safety, an agent fired defensive shots. The driver drove off with the passenger, fleeing the scene. This situation is evolving and more information is forthcoming.
Portland Mayor Calls on ICE to Leave City
In a statement to television station KATU, Mayor Keith Wilson said:
“We cannot sit by while constitutional protections erode and bloodshed mounts. Portland is not a “training ground” for militarized agents, and the “full force” threatened by the administration has deadly consequences. As Mayor, I call on ICE to end all operations in Portland until a full investigation can be completed.”
Leaders Beg Citizens Not to Riot
Please keep protests peaceful,” Senator Jeff Merkley, an Oregon Democrat, said in a statement. “Trump wants to generate riots. Don’t take the bait.”
Bob Day, Portland’s police chief, asked residents to let investigators do their jobs. “We understand the heightened emotion and tension many are feeling,” he said. “But I am asking the community to remain calm as we work to learn more.”
Dem Lawmaker Calls ICE “State-Sponsored Terrorism”
Rep. Janelle Bynum (D-OR) told CNN that the incident involved at least two people who had been stopped by government agents.
“Their presence is not welcome,” she told CNN. “It’s state-sponsored terrorism.”