PATTERSON, Calif. — A tense encounter unfolded in the quiet town of Patterson as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents shot a suspected gang member who is a person of interest in a murder case in El Salvador, officials reported on Tuesday.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the incident occurred during an attempted arrest. The suspect allegedly tried to run over one of the ICE officers, prompting them to discharge their weapons in self-defense.
Following the altercation, the suspect was injured and subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, according to federal officials.
The incident has left the small Central Valley community, home to about 25,000 residents, in a state of shock. “I was shocked when I first heard this,” shared local resident Steven Loya. “No, not in Patterson.”
This unexpected event took place at a central intersection near Interstate 5, an area not accustomed to such dramatic occurrences. ICE agents noted that the shooting happened during a planned operation to intercept and arrest the individual involved.
ICE officers say they were conducting a targeted vehicle stop to make an arrest.
Dashcam video shows a car, said to have been driven by the suspect, abruptly backing up and then speeding forward.
That’s when officers say they opened fire.
Video shows bullet holes in the smaller black SUV parked here in Stanislaus County.
“Deputies from the sheriff’s office immediately responded to the scene and assisted in securing the area by blocking the roadways,” Sheriff Jeff Dirkse said. “Fire and paramedic personnel also responded to provide medical assistance.”
The injured man was transported to a nearby hospital following the shooting.
Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons says the suspect is a member of the 18th Street Gang in El Salvador, that is where he is allegedly wanted for questioning for a murder.
FBI Sacramento has taken over as the primary agency for this investigation.
“We are conducting a thorough and methodical investigation to understand what transpired prior to today’s shooting,” Special Agent Eugene Wu said.
Community members from across the Central Valley came to the scene to get their look at what is now a national story.
“They’re here for a reason and I support them,” Loya said. “Keep up the good work.”
Joni Dickson Garcia is a rapid responder from Tracy. She came to make sure the smaller town had the support they needed, while making sure there is a thorough investigation into what happened.
After three recent shootings involving federal agents in Minnesota, she is unhappy with seeing lethal force used in a similar manner.
“You know the risk, assume the risk,” Dickson Garcia said. “Stop being a scared little baby and shoot every time you’re a little bit scared.”
The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office says the intersection at Sperry Avenue and Rogers Road has been closed since 6:30 a.m. Tuesday and will remain closed as the investigation continues.
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