A suspected gang member, believed to be an illegal immigrant, was shot dead by federal agents in California on Tuesday. This incident occurred during a murder investigation connected to a case in El Salvador, where authorities claim he attempted to run over an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent with his vehicle.
According to ICE Director Todd Lyons, the shooting transpired when agents stopped a vehicle in Paterson, California, aiming to arrest Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, an alleged member of the 18th Street gang wanted for questioning in connection with a murder. A senior official noted that Mendoza-Hernandez had received a tip from the National Targeting Center prior to the incident.
Reports indicate that as agents approached him, Mendoza-Hernandez allegedly attempted to use his vehicle as a weapon against them. Lyons stated that the officers acted defensively in response to the threat to protect themselves, their colleagues, and the public.
Mendoza-Hernandez was transported to a nearby hospital, but details about his injuries and current status remain undisclosed.
The FBI’s Sacramento office confirmed they are investigating the incident, which involves both ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). They expressed gratitude for the patience of the Paterson community during this ongoing investigation.
The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office is also assisting, clarifying that local police had no role in the event.
This event comes just months after another shooting involving ICE agents in Minneapolis, which sparked widespread protests.
Paterson, California is situated about 110 miles southeast of San Francisco, known for its agricultural produce, including almonds and apricots.
