In a recent news conference, Portland police revealed that two individuals shot by federal law enforcement in East Portland have “an association” with a Venezuelan criminal gang, known as Tren de Aragua. The shooting incident, which occurred on Thursday, has raised questions and sparked significant public interest, yet police did not disclose further details regarding the events leading up to the shooting. Police Chief Bob Day confirmed that the individuals, identified as Luis David Nino-Moncada and Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras, were connected to a shooting incident from last summer linked to the gang.
During the press conference, Chief Day stated, “Through the investigation of the shooting on July 11, there became a nexus to them.” However, he clarified that there was no conclusive evidence indicating their involvement in the prior incident, remarking, “As far as I am aware, they haven’t been named as, you know, suspects.” It was noted that Zambrano-Contreras had previously been arrested for prostitution, while Nino-Moncada was present during the execution of a search warrant related to that case.
The Washington County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Zambrano-Contreras is involved in a pending human trafficking case. Stephen Mayer, a spokesperson for the district attorney’s office, stated, “The DA’s office received a case referral from local law enforcement in the summer of 2025 involving human trafficking and firearm offenses.” Due to the complex nature of the case involving multiple jurisdictions, it was referred to the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for further investigation.
Oregon Federal Public Defender Fidel Cassino Du-Cloux confirmed he visited Nino-Moncada in the hospital, stating that his office is representing him. In a statement provided to OPB, Cassino Du-Cloux criticized the federal government's claims regarding Nino-Moncada's alleged gang affiliation, arguing that it follows a “well-worn playbook” aimed at justifying the actions of law enforcement. He emphasized the need to focus on Nino-Moncada's recovery rather than speculation surrounding the allegations against him.
The new information about the incident has heightened tensions in Portland, leading to protests and widespread criticism from local Democratic officials. However, Chief Day refrained from sharing additional details about the shooting itself, expressing the need to avoid victim blaming. He stated, “This information in no way is meant to disparage or condone any of the actions that occurred yesterday.” Both Nino-Moncada and Zambrano-Contreras are currently hospitalized in stable condition, having undergone surgery for their injuries.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the shooting occurred when Border Patrol agents attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Nino-Moncada, who is allegedly in the country illegally. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated, “When agents identified themselves to the vehicle occupants, the driver weaponized his vehicle and attempted to run over the law enforcement agents.” This narrative has yet to be confirmed, as the FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting incident.
The shooting has left residents of East Portland shaken, with reports of chaotic scenes as victims fled the location after being shot. Local resident Patrick Herrington described the aftermath, recounting the blood left on the sidewalk outside the Bria apartment complex. Many residents expressed shock and concern about the escalating violence in the area, particularly in light of the recent protests against federal immigration enforcement following another fatal shooting incident involving law enforcement in Minneapolis.
As the investigation continues, Chief Day has called for peace during upcoming demonstrations, urging Portland residents to maintain the credibility built through past peaceful protests. “I’m hopeful that, although the concern is high, we will have a peaceful but robust and active weekend,” Day stated. The situation remains fluid, with further details expected to emerge as investigations proceed.