Portland Police Chief Bob Day became emotional on Friday while discussing the recent deaths of two undocumented immigrants involved in an incident with federal immigration enforcement agents. Evidence emerged that these individuals had connections to the Venezuelan gang known as Tren de Aragua (TdA).
Day confirmed that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identified the deceased as Luis David Nico Moncada and Yorlenis Bezavez Zambrano Contreras, both suspected Venezuelan criminals. According to DHS, Moncada, the vehicle’s driver, allegedly attempted to run over an officer, prompting a self-defense response that led to both individuals being shot and killed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.
“They do have some connection to their involvement with TdA. That much can be confirmed,” Day stated, visibly affected as he spoke.
He expressed initial hesitation in disclosing these gang ties due to concerns over “historical injustices” and victim blaming that law enforcement has sometimes perpetuated, even within his own department.
“I feel it’s important to address my Latinx community,” he emphasized. “It saddens me that I have to clarify these points because I genuinely try to understand your concerns and fears,” he said, struggling with his emotions.
Day insisted that sharing this information was meant to promote transparency and should not serve as justification for the officers’ actions, which remain under investigation. “It’s crucial that we adhere to the rule of law while focusing on the facts,” he remarked.
Both suspects are currently hospitalized and in stable condition, under federal custody. Day noted, “They seem to be on the road to recovery, which we appreciate.”
Earlier reports claiming the pair were in a relationship were denied by DHS, which referred to these allegations as “annoying lies.” Instead, it was revealed that Moncada is suspected of gang involvement, while Zambrano-Contreras is linked to TdA-related prostitution activities.
The prior day saw criticism directed at Day from Camilla Wamsley, the director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in Portland, who mentioned a troubling trend of violence occurring at the facility during a time when police were notably absent during protests instigated by city leaders.
Though Day mentioned that his unit typically would not cooperate with immigration enforcement, he reiterated the police’s responsibility to ensure security in the area during demonstrations.
