Federal agents fired shots during a targeted immigration enforcement operation in San Bernardino on Saturday, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The incident occurred when the driver of a vehicle allegedly attempted to run over two Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, prompting an officer to discharge his firearm in self-defense, as reported by CNN.
The situation began when federal agents, wearing tactical vests marked “police,” surrounded a truck with three men inside, including Martin, his father-in-law, and his brother-in-law. The agents, who were masked and emerged from unmarked cars, asked the men to exit the vehicle. However, the family, fearing for their safety, refused to comply. Video footage shows the agents breaking the truck’s windows, after which the driver accelerated away. Three gunshots were heard as the vehicle drove off, with bullet holes later found in the truck’s side, according to ABC7.
The DHS stated that the officers were injured during the incident, though the severity of their injuries was not specified. The driver, identified as Francisco, was reportedly located at a residence by San Bernardino police but was released due to California’s pro-sanctuary policies, which limit local law enforcement’s involvement in federal immigration enforcement. The DHS criticized this decision, stating it shielded criminals instead of protecting communities.
The family involved in the incident, represented by the Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice, disputes the DHS’s account. They claim that Francisco did not attempt to run over the officers and that the agents did not identify themselves, leading to fear and confusion. The family is seeking an investigation to clear their name, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
The incident has sparked calls for accountability from community groups, highlighting ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local communities. The investigation is being handled by federal authorities, with the San Bernardino Police Department not involved due to state law restrictions.
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