U.S. federal immigration officials in Portland, Oregon, shot and injured two individuals on Thursday, as confirmed by authorities. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the passenger in the vehicle was linked to the Tren de Aragua prostitution ring and had ties to a recent shooting in Portland. When the agents approached the vehicle occupants, the driver attempted to harm them, prompting one agent to discharge a defensive shot in fear for their safety. The driver then fled the scene with the passenger.
There was no immediate independent verification of the incident or the alleged gang association of the individuals in the vehicle. Previous shootings involving agents during President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement initiative have raised doubts due to video evidence contradicting the initial descriptions provided by the administration.
President Trump and his supporters have consistently attributed violence and drug-related issues in certain U.S. cities to the Tren de Aragua gang. The incident in Portland, which occurred near a hospital, resulted in two individuals sustaining gunshot wounds. The Portland Police Bureau responded to the scene and confirmed that the injured individuals were involved in the altercation with federal agents.
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, along with the city council, called for a halt to ICE operations in the city until a thorough investigation is conducted. They emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional rights and expressed concerns about the use of federal forces in the region. The city officials stressed the need for peaceful demonstrations and unity in protecting the residents of Portland. U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley urged protesters to remain peaceful and not play into any attempts to incite unrest.
The FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting, with Portland police securing the affected areas for further inquiry. The incident has heightened tensions in Portland, a city known for its strained relationship with the current administration, particularly in light of past efforts to deploy National Guard troops in the area.