On Friday, federal authorities disclosed the identities of two individuals who were shot by immigration agents during a traffic stop in Portland the previous day. This incident has ignited a wave of outrage among local officials, who are calling for an end to the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, arguing that it is compromising the safety of the city.
The individuals involved in the shooting have been identified as Luis David Nico Moncada and Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras. Both were reported to have entered the United States illegally from Venezuela. According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, the pair is linked to Tren de Aragua, a notorious gang that originated in a Venezuelan prison and has become a frequent target of the Trump administration. However, federal officials have yet to provide concrete evidence to support this claim.
Federal authorities revealed that Luis David Nico Moncada had a history of driving violations since entering the U.S. in 2022 and was subject to an order for removal. The investigation into the shooting is currently being handled by federal officials. On Friday morning, it was confirmed that both individuals who were shot had been hospitalized. Upon their release, they will be taken into custody by the F.B.I..
In a concerning turn of events, city and state officials noted that they had not received any communication from federal authorities regarding the incident. They were unaware of which agency was involved in the shooting, and it was reported that the pair managed to drive approximately two miles to an apartment complex where they were residing, before police were notified. According to Bob Day, Portland’s police chief, the injured man called 911 to report the incident.
The immigration agents involved in the shooting reportedly left the scene before local law enforcement arrived. This situation raises significant questions about the conduct of federal immigration operations and their implications for community safety. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will likely remain on the tactics employed by federal agents in such situations, particularly in urban areas like Portland.
This incident serves as a reminder of the complex and often contentious relationship between local communities and federal immigration enforcement. As the dialogue around immigration policy continues, the reactions from officials and citizens alike will be crucial in shaping future actions and policies.