Federal immigration agents were trying to apprehend a suspect in New Jersey on Monday morning when the encounter turned violent, authorities said. During the operation, a fleeing driver allegedly struck an ICE agent with a vehicle, prompting the agent to open fire before the suspect sped away.
The incident happened shortly after 9:30 a.m. on Route 72 in Manahawkin, according to the Stafford Township Police Department. Investigators said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers were attempting to take the individual into custody when the situation escalated.
Police said the suspect hit an ICE agent while trying to escape. In response, the agent fired at the vehicle, which authorities believe was struck by gunfire.
Despite that, the driver managed to flee the scene and remained at large as of Monday afternoon, officials said.
Authorities have not said how seriously the ICE agent was hurt, and it remains unclear whether the suspect was injured in the shooting.
